Macedonian drug dealer Aleksandar Lazarov escapes police station, sparking investigation and ministerial resignation bid

On 9‑10 July 2026, 41‑year‑old Aleksandar Lazarov, known as “Cunata” and linked to drug trafficking and the Pulse nightclub case, fled through a window of the police station in Kočani, Macedonia. The Interior Ministry subsequently issued a central and international arrest warrant for him under articles 215(1) and 22 of the Criminal Code.

Director of the Public Safety Bureau Aleksandar Janjan described the escape as a “serious incident” and ordered a thorough investigation, saying: “If intentional assistance, covering up, or negligent performance of duties is found, there will be responsibility.” Internal control units from several central departments are reviewing the conduct of police officers involved.

Opposition parties, including the Social Democratic Union of Macedonia (SDSM) and the Social Democratic Union of Macedonia (SDSM), have demanded the resignation of Interior Minister Panche Toskovski, accusing the ministry of systemic failures.

Lazarov was recaptured on 15 July in Skopje and placed in the “Kisela Voda” police station for further processing. The case continues to fuel accusations of corruption within the police and calls for accountability at the ministerial level.