More than 40 people have been taken into police custody during today’s student protests in Tirana.
The students’ revolt spread across several major roads in the capital. The protest initially began outside the Ministry of Education before moving to Tirana City Hall, where the building was set on fire.
Fires were also reported at the New Bazaar (“Pazari i Ri”). Protesters set fire to rubbish bins at several major intersections and along key roads throughout Tirana.
The demonstration was marked by clashes between police and students, while police continued detaining protesters.
Police officers also formed cordons in several areas in an attempt to disperse the crowds.
One student was reportedly left with a broken leg. News24 confirmed that the young man underwent surgery. Initial reports had claimed that he was in a coma.
The situation escalated as the students continued their protest for approximately nine hours.
Of particular concern are reports of police violence during the operation to disperse the protesters. Numerous students were allegedly beaten with fists and rubber batons, while some were dragged along the ground as they were taken into custody.
