# Organized crime violence in Sarandë

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/organized-crime-violence-in-sarand
> Updated: 2026-09-20T11:18:56.000Z. Sources: 13. Developments: 2.

Artan Myrtaj, 44, known locally as ‘Tani i Ruzhdiut’, was assassinated in the center of Sarandë by two assailants on a motorcycle wearing helmets. During the attack, 73-year-old bystander Xhevdet Skëndaj was wounded and required emergency transport to a trauma hospital in Tirana.

Investigators suspect the execution was an organized hit, noting that the attackers appeared to have detailed knowledge of Myrtaj’s movements. The incident is suspected to be linked to an ongoing conflict between criminal groups involving Ervis Lami and Ramadan Zoto. Myrtaj had previously been arrested in 2025 for aiding a criminal following a property dispute in the coastal region.

In response, State Police Director General Skënder Hita has launched an intensive investigation and a comprehensive security review of the region. Former police official Asllan Dogjani described the event as a “mafia-style attack” that has caused significant public alarm. Authorities are also investigating potential links to prior criminal activities, including a previous robbery and an explosive device placed at a residence.

To address the situation, Hita has ordered the formation of a special task force comprising experts from the Criminal Police and Public Security Departments to reassess the criminal landscape in Sarandë. This includes evaluating the performance of local police leadership. Specialized structures for combating organized crime are being established, and authorities are utilizing drone surveillance in the Sarandë and Delvinë areas. An investigative team is currently reviewing security footage and has questioned approximately 20 people to identify the perpetrators.

## Claims

- Skender Hita ordered the intensification of investigations into both current and past criminal events following the end of the tourist season. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- A 44-year-old man was killed by gunfire in Sarandë. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- A 73-year-old passerby was wounded during the shooting incident. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Police are using drones to conduct searches in the Sarandë and Delvinë areas. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The State Police will increase human resources and logistical support for specialized units investigating serious and organized crime. (corroborated by 3 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-20: Sarandë shooting triggers special police task force

Albanian police have launched a special task force and intensive investigation in Sarandë following a fatal shooting suspected to be a mafia-style attack linked to organized crime.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sarand-shooting-police-director-orders-crackdown-on-organized-crime

### 2026-09-20: Sarandë assassination: Artan Myrtaj killed in motorcycle attack

Artan Myrtaj was killed in a motorcycle-borne assassination in central Sarandë, Albania. A 73-year-old bystander was also wounded in the attack, which is suspected to be linked to organized crime.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sarand-assassination-artan-myrtaj-killed-in-targeted-shooting

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Cite as: Organized crime violence in Sarandë. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/organized-crime-violence-in-sarand