Tirana Pogrom: Protesters Defeat Albanian Economy Ministry

Mass protests in the Albanian capital Tirana turned into riots: protesters broke into the building of the Ministry of Economy and damaged property. During the three days of clashes, 71 police officers were injured, Albanian Daily News reported.

On Friday night, demonstrators broke into the ministry after prolonged unrest in the city streets. According to the publication, the participants of the action took out of the building furniture and equipment, including printers.

The situation escalated on Thursday outside the office of the ruling party. Police used tear gas to disperse protesters. In response, rioters threw stones, pyrotechnics and bottles with an incendiary mixture at law enforcement officers and buildings of departments. In the central streets, windows were also broken and stalls were damaged.

In addition to the Ministry of Economy, the office of the Central Election Commission suffered from the actions of the demonstrators. Albanian police director Skender Hita said 71 police officers were injured in 72 hours of protests.

Student performances began due to the high cost of training, unsatisfactory conditions for classes and lack of jobs in the received specialty. The protesters also demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama.

The prime minister condemned the violence during the protests and said he did not intend to resign.

Amid the unrest, the Russian Embassy in Albania urged Russian citizens to avoid crowded places.

We also wrote earlier: French police took to the streets of the capital with a protest

Subscribe to MK in MAX. You will always be aware of the latest developments!