Albania’s special prosecutors clear PM’s brother in drug trafficking probe

Tirana, January 10, 2025 – Albania’s Special Prosecution Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) has closed its investigation into allegations that Olsi Rama, brother of Prime Minister Edi Rama, was involved in the “Xibraka” drug trafficking case.

The probe followed a report filed by opposition MP Gazment Bardhi, claiming that Olsi Rama had ties to illegal activities related to a drug laboratory uncovered in 2016. SPAK said it conducted extensive investigations, including cooperation with authorities in Kosovo, but found no evidence connecting Rama to the case.

“The investigation found no facts or proof linking Olsi Rama to the criminal activity for which others have already been convicted,” SPAK stated. The prosecutors also confirmed they could not identify any additional suspects involved in the offenses, which included drug production and trafficking by a criminal organization.

Citing insufficient evidence, SPAK officially suspended the case on December 23, 2024. The file has been handed over to the General Directorate of State Police to continue efforts to identify potential perpetrators.

The accusations against Olsi Rama had sparked intense political debate, with the opposition claiming institutional bias in protecting the prime minister’s inner circle. Meanwhile, the ruling Socialist Party has dismissed the allegations as baseless attempts to tarnish the government’s image.