Bekim Bulica wanted after Portuguese tourist murdered in Ksamil

Albanian authorities have declared Bekim Bulica wanted following the murder of Portuguese tourist Luis Miguel Varela Mendes at the ‘Principotes’ resort in Ksamil. While 29-year-old Sokrat Vata has been arrested for the execution, Bulica, the owner of the establishment, is accused of obstructing the investigation and assisting Vata in his escape.

Bulica is a figure with a significant criminal history. Investigations have previously linked him to international cocaine trafficking networks in Paris and money laundering. Reports from the Albanian State Intelligence Service (SHISH) and French authorities have previously highlighted his alleged involvement in drug distribution. In 2021, he was investigated regarding a prison escape plot involving drug boss Arbër Çekajt, and in 2023, he was wanted for the assault of a police officer in Tirana.

Additionally, an investigation specialist, Moisid Matushaj, has been barred from duty due to suspected involvement in the conflict preceding the murder and for allegedly helping the perpetrator flee the scene.