An international criminal network trafficking young women from Latin America and Central Asia for prostitution in Albania has been dismantled following a major operation led by Tirana Police, in cooperation with the Prosecutor’s Office, Colombian National Police, Croatian Police, EUROPOL, and EUROJUST.
The operation, codenamed “Rrjeti” (The Network), was finalized after 8 months of investigation, resulting in 9 security measures, including 7 arrests in prison.
Those arrested include:
- A.A. (43)
- R.M. (53)
- D.B. (39)
- M.Sh. (28)
- D.S. (37)
- I.G. (35)
- K.N. (25)
Two other suspects received the measure “Obligation to Appear”, while two members remain at large. The group’s main organizer, L.B. (25), was arrested in Colombia.
Investigations revealed that L.B. was responsible for recruiting women, organizing their travel and accommodation in Albania, and coercing them into prostitution. Victims faced threats and pressure against themselves and their families if they refused.
The network operated in a hotel in Tirana, adapted by I.G. for exploitation purposes. Several members also managed clients, provided drugs to the women, and laundered profits through cryptocurrencies, sending money back to Colombia.
The successful operation was carried out by the Section for Illegal Trafficking Investigations at DVP Tirana, under the direction of the Tirana Prosecutor’s Office.
