[REVISION HISTORY]

SPAK investigation into Belinda Balluku

Updated 6 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-29 18:36 UTC → 2026-10-20 08:43 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The Special Anti-Corruption and Organized Crime Structure (SPAK) has expanded its investigation into former Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku, adding charges of passive corruption, money laundering, and the concealment or non-declaration of assets. Investigators have identified a suspected link between public procurement and Balluku’s personal ~~assets. Specifically, SPAK alleges~~ assets, specifically alleging that Arbër Abazi, owner of Alko Impex General Construction, invested between 288,000 and 410,000 euros to complete a villa in the ‘Green Coast’ complex in Palasë. Abazi’s company was part of the group that secured the tender for Lot 7 of the Tirana Outer Ring Road, a project valued at approximately 2.35 billion lek. Consequently, a court has ordered the seizure of the Palasë This villa, which ~~prosecutors claim~~ is suspected to be Balluku’s property but ~~has been~~ registered under ~~individuals like~~ Igli Tare, has been seized by authorities. Tare ~~to hide ownership.~~ recently appeared at SPAK as part of the money laundering probe. The inquiry encompasses at least eight procurement procedures, including the Llogara Tunnel and segments of the Tirana Outer Ring ~~Road. Recent reports indicate the investigation may involve two villas and have highlighted specific evidence, such~~ Road, as ~~communications regarding luxury amenities and a note concerning a ‘25,000 euro pool’. Political~~ well as her tenure at Albcontrol. While political pressure ~~is mounting~~ mounts to strip Balluku of her parliamentary ~~immunity.~~ immunity, analysts suggest a shift in political support, noting she may be left to face SPAK independently. Democratic Party leader Gazment Bardhi has urged SPAK to resubmit requests for the removal of her immunity, arguing that the fight against corruption must not be selective. This call has gained international attention, with European Parliament member Isabel Wiseler-Lima also advocating for the removal of immunity to uphold judicial independence and support the public trust gained by SPAK. More recently, Bardhi has criticized SPAK for its handling of the case, alleging that Balluku continues to exert ‘de facto control’ over the Ministry of Infrastructure and its subordinate ~~institutions, influencing hiring and tenders despite no longer holding office.~~ institutions. Following a recent appearance before prosecutors, it was announced that the investigation into her alleged criminal activities has been extended until January 2027. Balluku has also faced public backlash following social media posts regarding police salary increases.

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