The recent case involving three minor children taken under protection by Social Services in Durrës has taken a new turn after their mother publicly reacted, denying allegations of abandonment and offering her version of events. The case has sparked intense debate across Albania, raising complex questions about poverty, parental responsibility, and the limits of social protection mechanisms.
 |
| Picture of Blerina B., source JOQ |
How the Case Emerged
According to official information, concerned neighbors alerted authorities after noticing prolonged distress sounds from inside the apartment. The Durrës Police, in cooperation with the Child Protection Office and Social Services, immediately intervened and confirmed what they described as a severe case of negligence.
Preliminary data indicated that the children had not attended school for nearly one month, while investigators suspect that during the last three days prior to police intervention, they may have been left without food. The living conditions inside the apartment were reportedly poor, with no signs of adequate care or supervision.
As a precautionary measure, the children were taken under state protection.
Medical Care and Social Protection Measures
Following the intervention, the three minors were transported to the Regional Hospital of Durrës, where they underwent medical examinations and were placed under doctors’ supervision. After their health condition was assessed, they were transferred to a Child Protection Center, where they were provided with food, clothing, psychological support, and ongoing care.
Authorities confirmed that the children are currently safe and that their physical and emotional well-being is being closely monitored.
Criminal Proceedings Initiated
The Durrës Police initiated criminal proceedings against Blerina B., referring the case to the Durrës Prosecutor’s Office for further legal actions. Investigators emphasized that cases involving minors are treated with maximum seriousness, especially when there are signs of prolonged neglect, educational interruption, and health risks.
However, the case has now entered a more complex phase following the mother’s public response.
Mother Denies Abandonment, Cites Extreme Poverty
In her statement, Blerina B. firmly denied having abandoned her children, describing the situation as a tragic consequence of severe economic hardship rather than intentional neglect.
She explained that she has been divorced for five years and is the sole caregiver of her three children, aged 5, 10, and 12. According to her, she works as a bartender and struggles daily to provide for her family under extremely limited financial conditions.
“I earn 400,000 lek per month, and 300,000 of that goes to rent,” she stated. “I cannot be with my children every hour of the day, but I have never abandoned them or stopped caring for them.”
She admitted that due to her work schedule and lack of financial resources, she occasionally left the children together at home during working hours, but stressed that this should not be interpreted as abandonment.
Allegations Against Former In-Laws
In a controversial part of her statement, Blerina B. accused her former mother-in-law of entering her apartment without permission and influencing the report that led to police involvement. She described the entire situation as a “trap” that placed her in a serious legal problem.
According to her claims, family conflicts and unresolved disputes may have played a role in escalating the case to authorities.
Health Issues and Limited Support from the Father
The mother also revealed that one of the children has suffered from epilepsy, requiring long-term medical treatment and additional care, which has further strained her financial and emotional capacity.
She added that the children’s father is himself in difficult economic circumstances and contributes only minimally to their support. This, she said, has left her carrying almost the entire burden of raising and providing for the children alone.
“I Will Not Let My Children Go to an Orphanage”
In an emotional declaration, Blerina B. insisted that she would not allow her children to be placed in institutional care.
“I am a mother, and I will protect my children. I will not leave them in an orphanage,” she said.
Her statement has sparked mixed reactions in public opinion, with some expressing empathy for her situation and others insisting that children’s safety must come first, regardless of economic hardship.
Authorities: Case Still Under Review
Authorities have confirmed that the case remains under active review and will be handled strictly according to legal procedures. Social Services, child protection specialists, and prosecutors are expected to assess not only the alleged neglect but also the broader social and economic context surrounding the family.
Experts emphasize that while poverty can never justify endangering children, it must be carefully evaluated when determining responsibility, support measures, and long-term solutions.
A Broader Debate on Child Protection in Albania
This case has reignited a national discussion on child protection in Albania, highlighting the thin line between neglect and survival in conditions of extreme poverty. It has also raised questions about access to social assistance, affordable childcare, and institutional support for single parents.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring the best interests of the children while establishing accountability in a fair and balanced manner.