Tensions escalated Friday evening in Tirana, where an opposition protest devolved into violent clashes between demonstrators and police forces. The area in front of key state institutions was engulfed in smoke from Molotov cocktails, fireworks, and tear gas.
At least two people were reported injured, one of whom lost consciousness due to tear gas exposure and was transported to the Trauma Hospital for medical treatment.
The protest began in front of the Prime Minister’s Office but quickly intensified after the speech of Sali Berisha, leader of the Democratic Party of Albania. Some protesters threw Molotov cocktails and pyrotechnic devices toward the building, while police responded with water cannons, tear gas, and stun grenades in an effort to disperse the crowd.
Following the escalation, protesters moved toward the Parliament of Albania, where confrontations continued. Reports indicated that hard objects were thrown at officers, and a police water cannon vehicle was set on fire near Rruga e Elbasanit.
Around 20:52 local time, clashes were still ongoing outside Parliament. Several protesters wearing gas masks remained in the area despite continued tear gas deployment. A young man without protective equipment fainted due to gas exposure, received first aid at the scene, and was later transported to hospital.
Tense moments were also reported near the Namazgah Mosque, where worshippers exiting after evening prayers rushed to avoid tear gas drifting into the area. Videos circulating online showed chaotic scenes outside the mosque, while prayers continued inside.
During the unrest, Berisha briefly stepped away from the podium for security reasons following explosions from Molotov cocktails and fireworks but later rejoined protesters wearing a gas mask. He declared that the protest would not stop, stating that “nothing in the world can save them.”
Meanwhile, Taulant Balla, head of the parliamentary group of the Socialist Party of Albania, accused organizers of inciting violence and using Molotov cocktails.
Interior Minister Albana Koçiu also condemned the violence, urging protest organizers to avoid involving minors in acts that endanger citizens, police officers, and journalists. “Violence is not a solution,” she stated.
Earlier in the day, Tirana Police had announced that no permit had been granted for the gathering and warned of potential violent incidents.
After the intense clashes near Parliament, protesters and Democratic Party leaders moved toward the party’s headquarters, signaling the continuation of their resistance. The situation on the ground remains tense, with police forces continuing to monitor developments to fully restore order and calm.
