Albanian police have begun detaining protesters as a demonstration outside the country’s Parliament escalates amid a heavy security presence in central Tirana.
According to A2 CNN, at least three protesters have been taken into police custody during the early stages of the protest.
Police officers have been deployed at major intersections surrounding Parliament, establishing security cordons to prevent demonstrators from approaching the legislative building.
The protesters gathered at Skanderbeg Square at 8:30 a.m. before marching toward Parliament, where they assembled shortly after 9:00 a.m.
Anticipating possible clashes with security forces, many demonstrators arrived equipped with protective masks to shield themselves from tear gas and pepper spray, according to local media reports.
More than 1,500 police officers have been deployed for the operation, forming multiple security perimeters around Parliament in an effort to maintain order and prevent breaches of the restricted area.
The situation remains tense as authorities continue monitoring the protest and additional developments are expected throughout the day.
