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Police move on loan sharks in Kumanovo extortion raid

Police are preparing charges against five suspects for loan sharking, extortion, and money laundering after a raid in Kumanovo uncovered a large sum of cash and documentation. The investigation has expanded to include a local exchange office linked to a suspect's brother as authorities examine the group's financial activities.

The European Commission's latest progress report for the country arrived with a familiar split: it praised advancements in digitalization and education but highlighted a lack of results in the fight against high-level corruption. The judiciary appears to be moving backward, even as the government continues to invest in the construction of new roads and bridges.

In Skopje, city officials have amended waste disposal rules to allow cafes to throw out their rubbish until 1 AM. Elsewhere, the owner of a technical inspection centre in Tetovo is under investigation for allegedly pocketing €675,000 in payments from citizens.

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Police Operation Leads to Extortion and Loan Sharking Charges

Police are preparing criminal charges against five suspects following an operation in Kumanovo, targeting loan sharking, extortion, and money laundering. Authorities seized significant amounts of money and documents, with investigations indicating activities dating back to 2021. The National Bank is also reportedly investigating an exchange office linked to a suspect's brother.

EU Criticizes North Macedonia on Judicial Reforms and Corruption

The European Commission's 2026 progress report for North Macedonia indicates regression in judicial reforms and a continued lack of results in the fight against high-level corruption. While acknowledging advancements in digitalization and education, Brussels issued criticisms regarding the country's overall progress.

Alta Bank Counters Reopen Amid Public Distress

Alta Bank's counters in Bitola have reopened to clients, reportedly leading to multiple interventions by ambulance services. The specific reasons for the medical interventions were not detailed, but the situation suggests continued public concern and operational challenges related to the bank's crisis.

Government Coalition Stability and Infrastructure Development

Izet Medziti, co-president of the VLEN coalition, affirmed the government's capacity to resolve internal issues, stating that the Brevnica matter will not disrupt the coalition. Separately, infrastructure investments in roads, bridges, and corridors are highlighted as signs of progress and future development for the country.

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