Tirana protests leave eight people injured

Eight people received medical treatment following a national protest in Tirana on Saturday, October 24, which was marked by clashes and tensions. According to data from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the injured include a Member of Parliament, two media representatives, one police officer, and four protesters.

Six individuals were treated at the ‘Nënë Tereza’ University Hospital Center (QSUT), while two others were treated at the University Trauma Hospital (SUT). The deputy and four protesters have since been discharged from the hospital. The injured deputy is suspected to be Gjin Gjoni, who reportedly experienced eye issues during the demonstration, though his identity has not been officially confirmed by the Ministry.

In a separate incident, News24 journalist Klevin Muka sustained first-degree skin burns after being sprayed with pepper water from a police water cannon while reporting on the protest. The Association of Professional Journalists of Albania has expressed solidarity with Muka, calling the incident scandalous and demanding an official explanation from the State Police regarding the composition of the substances used.