Italy raises alarm: Albanians control cocaine trafficking

Italy raises alarm: Albanians control cocaine trafficking

The Italian Anti-Mafia and Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor has touched down in Tirana on a visit aimed to strengthen the alliance in fighting against organized crime and drug trafficking.

After meeting with Interior Minister Fatmir Xhafaj this morning, the Italian Prosecutor was then hosted by Albania's Acting Chief Prosecutor General, Arta Marku.

The anti-mafia Prosecutor noted that criminality in Albania is highly evident and present throughout Italy.

He confirmed Italian authorities are ready to cooperate with anyone who has declared war on this criminality.

"We talked about the ongoing investigations. We have evidenced that Albanian criminality is very present in Italy.

"They are collaborating with a number of Italian mafia groups in Italy.  

"Albanian criminal groups are involved in trafficking of marijauana and other light drugs, weapons, but ultimately are heavily interested in cocaine trafficking.

"There are a significant number of active investigations currently ongoing in Italy," announced the Italian Prosecutor.  

Regarding drug trafficking, the anti-mafia prosecutor noted that they have strived as Albanian justice institutions have not worked properly for years, while adding that there are clear signs for the need to co-operate.

"Cannabis trafficking continues to be a concern, despite what the Interior Minister said at today's meeting where he explained that important initiatives are continuing.

"The destruction of cannabis plantations and also the creation of the Task Force are of great importance.

"We will continue to collaborate with all those targeting the destruction of mafia organizations," conrfimed the Italian Anti-Mafia Prosecutor.

EMISIONET