The Director of the Border and Immigration department in Tirana and four other employees have been suspended from duty and arrested for being involved in human trafficking.
Director Enekeleda Toska and four members of staff, Altin Hasani, Besnik Zela, Albana Metko, and Adelina Lita have all been suspended and detained
It was found that they were involved in the clandestine trafficking of human beings through illegally issuing residence permits to foreign nationals coming to Albania from the Middle East. “Significant financial rewards” were alleged to have been given for the issuance of permits. Individuals would then be moved on to Italy and Romania for as much as EUR 13,000.
Through cooperation with citizens, companies, and other entities, they are accused of misusing the legal powers given to them and violating the process of residence permit issuance. They are also suspected of assisting with the realization of the international trafficking of human beings through the country.
It is believed the trafficking ring has been operating for some time, in cooperation with each other, and with a lot of money changing hands
They have all been detained for forgery of documents, abuse of duty, and providing assistance for illegal border crossing. Investigations are ongoing to compile the complete list of criminal offenses committed by these individuals.
