Tirana police arrest suspect in two armed bank robberies

Albanian authorities have arrested 50-year-old Robert Duka, also known as Albert Duka, in connection with two armed bank robberies in the Komuna e Parisit area of Tirana. The robberies occurred on June 2 and November 2, 2026, with the total stolen amount estimated at approximately 75,000 euros.

During the most recent incident on November 2, the suspect allegedly arrived at a bank branch on an electric scooter while wearing a motorcycle helmet and dark clothing. Security footage captured him entering the premises, locking the door to prevent occupants from leaving, and threatening a security guard with what appeared to be a firearm. He reportedly seized approximately 60,000 euros in various coins before fleeing on the scooter.

Following his arrest during the police operation code-named “Bank Hunter,” investigators recovered 8,200 euros and clothing believed to have been used during the crimes. Duka has reportedly claimed that much of the stolen money was spent at various casinos in Tirana.

According to Albanian media reports, Duka has a significant criminal history. He was previously accused in Greece of involvement in an organized criminal group linked to 28 bank robberies. He was also reportedly a fugitive from a Tirana prison in 2016.