The Albanian State Police, through the Elbasan Police Directorate, have carried out a significant law enforcement operation aimed at combating illegal activities and protecting public order. As part of the operation codenamed “Transit”, authorities arrested three Colombian nationals who were caught in flagrante delicto while practicing prostitution in two rented apartments in the city of Elbasan, Albania.
This case has attracted public attention across Albania due to its international dimension, the use of online platforms to facilitate illegal activity, and the growing concern about organized prostitution networks operating within urban areas.
Details of Operation “Transit” in Elbasan
According to official police sources, the operation was conducted after careful investigations and intelligence gathering, which confirmed suspicions that foreign nationals were involved in prostitution activities inside residential buildings in Elbasan.
During the police intervention, officers arrested the following individuals:
- D. P., 20 years old, Colombian citizen
- D. M., 18 years old, Colombian citizen
- J. D., 34 years old, Colombian citizen
All three women were charged with the criminal offense of “Prostitution”, as defined by Albanian criminal law.
The arrests took place simultaneously in two separate apartments, where the illegal activity was actively ongoing at the time of police entry.
Apartment Owner Under Criminal Investigation
In addition to the arrests, police authorities referred materials to the Prosecutor’s Office, initiating criminal proceedings against:
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M. J., 34 years old, an Albanian citizen and owner of one of the apartments
She is accused of the criminal offense “Maintaining premises for prostitution”, a serious charge under Albanian legislation that carries significant legal consequences.
This highlights an important aspect of the case: not only those directly practicing prostitution but also property owners who knowingly facilitate such activities can face prosecution in Albania.
Online Platforms Used to Contact Clients
Investigators revealed that the foreign nationals were contacting clients through online websites, a method increasingly used by prostitution networks across Europe and the Balkans.
This digital approach allows illegal activities to operate discreetly, making detection more challenging for authorities. However, the Elbasan Police successfully identified the pattern of communication, traced the locations, and gathered sufficient evidence to carry out the operation.
The case underscores the growing role of the internet in organized crime, even in mid-sized Albanian cities like Elbasan.
Evidence Seized During Police Searches
During searches conducted inside the apartments, police seized multiple items considered material evidence, including:
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Cash sums in different foreign currencies, suspected to be proceeds from prostitution
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Mobile phones, believed to have been used to communicate with clients
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Various documents, now under forensic examination
These materials will play a crucial role in the ongoing investigation and future court proceedings.
Impact on Public Safety and Albanian Society
For many Albanians, this operation represents a strong message that illegal activities involving foreign nationals will not be tolerated, regardless of how discreet or organized they may appear.
Elbasan, a historic city with a growing urban population, has increasingly become a focus for law enforcement efforts aimed at preserving public morality, safety, and legality.
Authorities emphasized that such operations are part of a broader national strategy to:
- Combat prostitution and human exploitation
- Prevent the misuse of residential properties for illegal purposes
- Address cross-border criminal activities
- Monitor and regulate online platforms used for illicit services
Albanian Police Strengthen Fight Against Organized Crime
The success of Operation “Transit” reflects improved coordination between police units, cyber-investigation teams, and prosecutors. Albanian law enforcement agencies continue to invest in modern investigative techniques, especially in cases involving digital communication and international elements.
Police officials have reassured citizens that similar operations will continue across Albania, particularly in areas where intelligence suggests the presence of illegal networks.
Legal Consequences and Ongoing Investigations
The three Colombian nationals remain under custody while judicial procedures continue. Meanwhile, the investigation into possible wider networks or accomplices is still ongoing.
Authorities have not ruled out additional arrests, especially if evidence suggests connections to organized groups operating beyond Elbasan or Albania’s borders.
The arrest of three Colombian women for prostitution in Elbasan marks an important step in Albania’s ongoing fight against illegal activities and organized crime. Operation “Transit” demonstrates the commitment of the Albanian Police to enforce the law, protect communities, and adapt to modern criminal methods, including online facilitation.
For Albanian citizens, this case serves as a reminder that the rule of law applies equally to locals and foreigners, and that cooperation between authorities and society remains essential in maintaining public order.