Albanian authorities have launched a sweeping operation against alleged electoral crimes just days before the country heads to the polls on May 11. 

Acting on orders from the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SPAK), agents from the National Bureau of Investigation (BKH), backed by local police forces, carried out coordinated raids in several districts of the northern region of Shkodra.

Investigations focused on areas including Malësia e Madhe, Barbullush, Mjedë, and Bushat, with particular attention paid to the activities of individuals linked to the Social Democratic Party (PSD), led by controversial politician Tom Doshi. In Bushat alone, six searches were conducted targeting members of the PSD’s electoral staff, based on suspicions of involvement in vote-buying and other election-related offenses.

“These are serious and targeted investigations into individuals suspected of undermining the democratic process,” said a source within SPAK, who asked not to be named due to the sensitivity of the ongoing operations.

Leading the investigation is Special Prosecutor Dritan Prençi, who was appointed to oversee electoral crime cases in the region. The crackdown follows growing concerns about electoral integrity and accusations of illicit political influence.

Speaking to the Albanian political talk show Real Story, Prime Minister Edi Rama addressed the volatile situation in Shkodra and categorically rejected any form of political cooperation with parties or figures implicated in electoral misconduct.

“The Socialist Party is in this race to win—and we will not collaborate with any political force, including the one led by Tom Doshi,” Rama stated.

Earlier in the day, SPAK’s Chief Prosecutor Altin Dumani held a high-level meeting with local prosecutors and police officials in Shkodra. The gathering aimed to coordinate the newly established task force designed to combat electoral crimes in the lead-up to the local elections. Dumani was accompanied by Adnand Xholi, head of the Organized Crime Directorate, and both officials later traveled to Lezha for similar coordination meetings.

In an official statement released later, SPAK confirmed that out of 35 ongoing electoral crime investigations, 33 involve charges of active electoral corruption, while two are related to abuse of public office for political gain and misuse of official functions.

The operations mark one of the most assertive pre-election law enforcement actions in recent Albanian history, highlighting the state’s increasing efforts to address systemic corruption and restore trust in democratic institutions.

Sources:

• SPAK Official Press Release, May 8, 2025
• National Bureau of Investigation (BKH)
• Real Story interview with Prime Minister Edi Rama, May 7, 2025
• Local Police Shkodra & Lezha coordination reports