21 detained following violent escalation of anti-government protest in Albania’s capital
Flammable materials, pyrotechnic devices, and hard objects thrown at police injure 16 officers, authorities say
Protesters hurling molotov cocktails, fireworks, smoke bombs, and various objects at the Prime Minister's Office, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama during a demonstration in Tirana, Albania on February 10, 2026. Tensions flared during an anti-government protest as thousands of demonstrators gathered following a call by the opposition Democratic Party (PD).
TIRANA/ISTANBUL
Twenty-one people were detained on Tuesday, due to tensions escalating at an anti-government protest in Albania’s capital, Tirana.
According to the Tirana Police Directorate, the detainees are suspected of committing criminal offenses including assault on officers, intentional serious bodily injury, disturbing public order, violations related to explosive and flammable materials, destruction of property by fire, and resisting a public official.
Proceedings have also been initiated against several representatives and members of the Democratic Party, authorities said.
Demonstrators, who gathered in front of the Prime Minister’s Office, marched toward parliament.
Authorities said that during the protest, flammable materials, pyrotechnic devices, and hard objects were hurled at police officers and public institution buildings.
“As a result of attacks with hard objects, pyrotechnic devices, and Molotov cocktails against the police and state institutions, 16 police officers were injured. They received medical assistance at a hospital and are not in life-threatening condition,” the statement said, adding that 22 unexploded Molotov cocktails were seized.
Commenting on the tension that erupted at the protest, Albania’s Interior Minister Albana Kociu said: “The right to protest was once again abused by a group that chose force instead of words, attacking, committing violence, and injuring members of the state police.”
- Anti-government protest in Albania
Tuesday’s protest, organized by opposition parties including the Democratic Party, resulted in tension, with demonstrators throwing Molotov cocktails, flammable materials, smoke bombs, and various objects.
Following clashes with demonstrators in front of the parliament building, authorities used tear gas and water cannons, resulting in injuries to several individuals, reports said.
In recent months, anti-government protests have been organized in Albania, and opposition parties have announced that they will continue.
*Writing by Kanyshai Butun
Anadolu Agency website contains only a portion of the news stories offered to subscribers in the AA News Broadcasting System (HAS), and in summarized form. Please contact us for subscription options.
