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Port Halts 'Shadow Fleet' Tanker; Tirana Officials See Delegation Revoked

Albania's Durrës Port today blocked a Russian 'shadow fleet' tanker suspected of sanctions violations, marking a significant domestic action against vessels linked to illicit oil transport. This development comes as Prime Minister Edi Rama held meetings with political delegates and ministers to emphasize the 'Besa' initiative and address citizen concerns, following a notable internal shake-up in the Tirana Municipality.

The internal political focus in Tirana intensified with Mayor Erion Veliaj revoking the delegation of powers from Deputy Mayor Anuela Ristani for not following orders. Meanwhile, the high-profile AKSHI corruption case saw businessman Ergys Agasi ordered to remain in prison and face transfer to a penitentiary, with a companion also charged for aiding a criminal.

Amidst these political and legal developments, wildfires continue to pose a threat across the country, with the Ministry of Defense reporting 34 outbreaks in 24 hours and a large forest fire in Bulqizë dangerously approaching villages. Separately, a new police operation was conducted in Korçë to apprehend a man sentenced for murder, and discord emerged among members of the High Judicial Council regarding the General Prosecutor race.

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Russian 'Shadow Fleet' Tanker Halted at Durrës Port

Albania's Durrës Port Authority has denied entry to a tanker suspected of being part of Russia's 'shadow fleet' due to alleged violations. This action follows reports of a Russian 'shadow fleet' vessel being blacklisted by the EU and banned from Durrës port starting in 2025 for transporting sanctioned oil.

Tirana Mayor Revokes Deputy's Delegation Amidst PM's 'Besa' Initiative Meetings

Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj has revoked the delegation of powers to Deputy Mayor Anuela Ristani, citing her failure to follow orders. This internal municipal shake-up coincides with Prime Minister Edi Rama holding multiple meetings with political delegates, district deputies, and ministers in Tirana, focusing on the implementation of the 'Besa' initiative, addressing citizen concerns, and emphasizing loyalty and effective field presence.

Ergys Agasi Detained and Associate Charged in AKSHI Case

Following his arrest, fugitive businessman Ergys Agasi has been ordered to remain in prison by a GJKKO ruling and will be transferred to the Bradashesh penitentiary as part of the ongoing AKSHI corruption probe. Additionally, Uljan Shpataraku, who was apprehended with Agasi, faces charges for aiding a criminal authority.

Protests Continue; General Prosecutor Race Causes Discord

Citizens continue their protests for the 91st day, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama and advocating for youth prioritization. Separately, the competition for the General Prosecutor position is reportedly causing internal conflict among members of the High Judicial Council (KLP).

Wildfires Persist, Threatening Villages in Bulqizë

Wildfires continue to be a significant concern across Albania, with the Ministry of Defense reporting 34 outbreaks in the last 24 hours and 5 active fires. A particularly large forest fire in Bulqizë is spreading across hundreds of hectares and dangerously approaching two villages.

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