Albanian counterterrorism authorities have sought Europol’s assistance in investigating bomb threats sent by email to more than 100 institutions across the country.
The threats were contained in two emails warning that bombs had been placed at the targeted institutions, prompting authorities to investigate their origin and the motives behind the messages.
According to sources cited by Top Channel journalist Anila Hoxha, investigators are focusing on the cyber dimension of the case and have requested specialized assistance from Europol.
The case is expected to be referred to the prosecutor’s office under Article 267 of Albania’s Criminal Code, which concerns the dissemination of false information that causes panic.
Investigators reportedly believe the wording of the threatening emails may provide clues about their origin. Based on an analysis of the two messages sent to dozens of institutions at around 8 a.m. the previous day, authorities suspect the Albanian-language text may have been translated using Google Translate.
As an example, investigators reportedly pointed to the phrase “This is the Islamic State,” which appeared in the Albanian-language threat as “Kjo është Shteti Islamik.”
Authorities are continuing to examine digital traces and other evidence in an effort to identify those responsible for the threats and determine whether the messages were part of a coordinated operation.
Europol’s involvement is expected to provide additional technical and investigative support, particularly in tracing the digital infrastructure used to distribute the threatening messages.
