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Von der Leyen arrives in Tirana as police dismantle call center scams

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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Tirana today for a Balkan tour, including a press conference and meetings with Prime Minister Edi Rama. This visit marks a significant diplomatic engagement for the country.

In other news, law enforcement in Tirana successfully dismantled another fraudulent call center, arresting four individuals involved in defrauding EU citizens. Separately, an explosion caused material damage at a business in Durrës, with investigations ongoing.

Meanwhile, the ongoing intelligence scandal continues to draw attention, with Ergys Agasi's lawyer refuting claims of his client's involvement with state secrets or meetings with former SHISH head Vlora Hyseni. The opposition has also questioned the findings of a National Security Council audit regarding the SHISH allegations.

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European Commission President Visits Tirana

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is in Tirana today as part of a Balkan tour, engaging in discussions and a press conference with Prime Minister Edi Rama.

Call Center Scams Busted in Tirana

Authorities in Tirana have successfully busted two separate call center operations, arresting four individuals in each case, who were allegedly defrauding EU citizens by posing as lawyers. The owners of both centers are currently at large.

Shqiptarja.com Call center scam targeting EU citizens busted in Tirana; 4 arrested. ↗
Top Channel Another Call Center Seized in Tirana: Four arrested, one prosecuted, owner… ↗

Explosion at Durrës Business

An explosion caused by explosive material occurred at the entrance of a business in Durrës, resulting in material damage. The owners of the establishment deny having any known conflicts.

Top Channel Explosion with explosive material at the door of a business in Durrës ↗
Shqiptarja.com Explosion at a business in Durrës causes material damage; owners claim no… ↗

SHISH Scandal and Corruption Allegations

The ongoing scandal involving Albania's State Intelligence Service (SHISH) continues, with Ergys Agasi's lawyer denying his client's alleged meetings with former SHISH head Vlora Hyseni or possession of state secrets. The opposition has formally questioned Prime Minister Edi Rama and President Bajram Begaj regarding the criteria for Hyseni's appointment. Accusations against the former head of SHISH have raised national security concerns, amidst allegations linking high officials and organized…

Reporter.al Accusations against the head of SHISH question Albania's national security ↗
Reporter.al High officials and organized crime united in defense of Ergys Agasi ↗
Reporter.al Rama's full guarantee and his political responsibility for Vlora Husen ↗
BalkanWeb Protest Held: Citizens Take to Streets Demanding Rama's Resignation ↗

More Resorts Planned in Zvërneci Protected Area

Beyond projects involving Jared Kushner, reports indicate that three additional resorts are being planned for development within the protected Zvërneci area.