The fight against environmental crimes in Albania has taken a decisive turn with the successful completion of the police operation codenamed “Metalurgjiku” in Elbasan. After months of intensive investigations conducted using special investigative methods, the Elbasan Local Police Directorate, in cooperation with the Prosecution Office, has uncovered a serious case of illegal industrial activity causing extensive environmental damage.
This operation represents one of the most significant law enforcement actions in recent years targeting environmental pollution, illegal waste processing, and abuse of public office. The case has also reignited public debate in Albania regarding industrial oversight, corruption, and the protection of public health.
Illegal Waste Processing and Environmental Pollution
According to official police statements, two legal entities operating in the former Metallurgical Plant area in Bradashesh, Elbasan, were found to be conducting illegal waste processing activities and ferrochrome production in violation of environmental laws. These activities caused pollution of the air, water, and soil, posing serious risks to residents and the surrounding ecosystem.
Investigations revealed that the companies failed to comply with Albania’s legislation on integrated waste management, particularly in the handling and processing of battery waste, one of the most hazardous forms of industrial waste.
Based on Article 3 of Law No. 9754 (June 14, 2007) on the criminal liability of legal persons, both companies are now facing criminal prosecution for environmental crimes.
Arrests and Criminal Charges
As a result of Operation “Metalurgjiku,” 16 individuals were arrested, including 9 foreign nationals, who held managerial, technical, and operational roles within the companies. The arrests highlight the international dimension of the illegal activity and raise concerns about foreign involvement in environmentally harmful industries operating under weak oversight.
Among those arrested are company administrators, production directors, engineers, shift supervisors, furnace operators, and workers. The diversity of roles involved indicates a systematic and organized illegal operation, rather than isolated violations.
In a particularly alarming development, the Head of the Environmental Sector at the Municipality of Elbasan was also arrested. He faces charges of abuse of office and document forgery, suggesting institutional complicity in allowing the illegal activity to continue unchecked.
Wanted Shareholders and Financial Crimes
In addition to the arrests, 8 individuals have been declared wanted, all shareholders of the commercial entities involved. These individuals are accused of a wide range of serious criminal offenses, including:
- Air, water, and soil pollution
- Concealment of income
- Illegal employment practices
- Money laundering related to criminal activity
Authorities are actively working to locate and arrest the suspects, while procedural materials have been forwarded to the Elbasan Prosecution Office for further legal action.
Administrative Penalties and Suspension of Activities
During inspections carried out in cooperation with the National Inspectorate for Territorial Protection, authorities imposed substantial administrative fines for violations of integrated waste management regulations.
One company was fined 3,000,000 Albanian lekë, while the second was fined 10,000,000 Albanian lekë. Additionally, the activities of both companies were suspended until they fully comply with legal and environmental requirements.
Law enforcement officials also seized electronic devices, including mobile phones and DVR systems, which are expected to provide further evidence of illegal operations and internal coordination.
Environmental Crimes and Public Health Concerns
The Elbasan case underscores the broader environmental challenges Albania continues to face, particularly in former industrial zones that remain vulnerable to illegal exploitation. Environmental pollution of this scale not only damages ecosystems but also poses long-term health risks to local communities, including respiratory illnesses, contaminated water sources, and soil degradation.
Public reaction has been strong, with citizens demanding stricter enforcement, greater transparency, and accountability at both corporate and institutional levels. Environmental activists argue that the case exposes systemic failures in monitoring and enforcement, while also demonstrating the urgent need for reform.
A Message from Law Enforcement
Albanian police authorities have emphasized that Operation “Metalurgjiku” is part of a broader strategy to identify, investigate, and dismantle criminal activities that harm the environment. Officials confirmed that similar operations will continue nationwide, particularly in high-risk industrial zones.
The case sends a clear message: environmental crimes will no longer be treated as secondary offenses, but as serious criminal acts with significant legal consequences.
Operation “Metalurgjiku” marks a critical moment in Albania’s battle against environmental crime and corruption. By exposing illegal waste processing, prosecuting those responsible, and suspending harmful industrial activities, authorities have taken a significant step toward safeguarding public health and environmental integrity.
However, lasting change will require sustained enforcement, institutional reform, and public vigilance. The people of Elbasan—and Albania as a whole—will be watching closely to see whether justice is fully delivered and whether such crimes are prevented in the future.