In a coordinated law enforcement operation early Saturday, Albanian authorities arrested three individuals in connection with a large-scale clothing smuggling scheme involving imported goods from China and Turkey.
The Economic and Financial Crime Investigation Sector of the State Police carried out Operation “Brand 3” after receiving intelligence about the illegal import, storage, and sale of luxury brand clothing without proper customs declarations or tax documentation.
During the raid in Tirana, officers intercepted two vehicles loaded with 17 suitcases containing high-end clothing items suspected to be contraband. All the merchandise and vehicles were seized as material evidence.
Police identified a total of seven suspects allegedly involved in the ring. Three—Sofokli Bushi (69), Bilbil Llangozi (72), and Ali Bushati (57)—were arrested on the spot and detained. The remaining four suspects are being investigated and have been referred to prosecutors for criminal proceedings.
Authorities have charged the group with multiple offenses, including violation of industrial property rights, smuggling of goods, trafficking and transporting contraband, tax evasion, and concealment of income.
The operation reflects ongoing efforts by Albanian police to clamp down on informal markets and contraband activities that undermine legal trade and tax compliance.