The EU Delegation in Tirana has condemned the violent attack of a Roma citizen by the Municipal Police.
A video that went viral on social media showed the youth being beaten by two officers, as he was collecting rubbish by the side of the road.
A delegation spokesperson told BIRN that they condemned the attack and welcomed the announcement of the Ombudsman’s investigation.
“The EU Delegation condemns all forms of discrimination, marginalisation and violence, especially against members of the Roma and Egyptian communities.”
They added: “For the specific case of images circulated on social media, the EU Delegation trusts the work of the relevant national authorities and in this regard, welcomes the investigation launched by the People’s Advocate (Ombudsman) on this issue.”
The Municipal Police have not publicly commented on the issue, nor have they responded to questions sent by BIRN.
This is not the first incident where Municipal Police have been caught on camera mistreating citizens. Incidents range from shouting and being verbally abusive, and confiscating and destroying the goods of street vendors.
