Protest outside parliament ends with detentions and injuries

Several protesters were detained and police officers and demonstrators were injured on Thursday after tensions outside Albania’s parliament escalated following a short plenary session.

Protesters threw eggs, water bottles and other objects at lawmakers’ cars as MPs tried to leave the building. Police later used water, pepper spray and tear gas to disperse the crowd after demonstrators tried to break through metal barriers.

Around 15 people were escorted by police, according to local reports. A police vehicle was also damaged, while some injured officers and protesters were taken to hospital.

Interior Minister Besfort Lamallari visited injured police officers at the Trauma Hospital and said those who attacked officers had been identified and would face prosecution. He described the violence as an attack on the state.

Socialist Party parliamentary group leader Taulant Balla said the ruling majority would not be forced back by violent protesters and accused some participants of having criminal records.

Thursday’s protest followed earlier clashes on June 30, when 31 people were escorted by police. The demonstrations are part of a weeks-long protest against the planned investment project in Zvernec and include calls for Prime Minister Edi Rama to resign.