Tirana Police report 22 injured officers, deny misconduct allegations
Regarding several videos published on social media claiming that civilians forcibly escorted a woman, the Tirana Police Directorate clarifies that the person escorted was a man, not a woman.
The individual was escorted by Criminal Police officers as part of operations to identify and escort people suspected of involvement in unlawful acts during the protest.
The man is suspected of leading the demonstrators and throwing metal dice at police officers and institutions, CE Report informs via the State Police of Albania's official website.
Regarding claims published on social media that police officers used metal cables, the Tirana Police Directorate states that the cables shown in the media were seized on the morning of October 15, 2026, from four masked young men who were heading to the protest to attack demonstrators. The Tirana Police do not use such equipment, as the types of equipment they employ are standardized by law and governed by standard procedures.
Meanwhile, the Tirana Police clarify that a group of masked protesters went to the Student Centre in the Qytet Studenti area on the evening of October 15, 2026, and smashed the windows and doors of the Student Centre buildings. The police have carried out all necessary procedural actions and are continuing their efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible.
The Tirana Police also wish to inform the public that no police officer has resigned and that no order has been issued to use violence against individuals taken into police custody.
The Tirana Police Directorate regrets the spread of this malicious information, which it says is intended to create a climate of conflict between the police and protesters. The Tirana Police respect and guarantee the right to peaceful protest and call on participants to distance themselves from violent and masked individuals who are attacking police officers, state institutions, and public and private property.
During the October 15, 2026, protest, 22 police officers were injured as a result of the violence. Institutions, private and banking facilities, as well as road signage, were also damaged.
Photo Ministry of Internal Affairs of Albania
