Skënder Hita Calls for Stronger Police Action Against Cannabis Cultivation in Shkodër and Lezhë

 Skënder Hita, Director General of the Albanian State Police, has called for intensified preventive work and higher-quality investigations during meetings with local police leaders in northern Albania.

Skënder Hita while giving a public speech, April 11, 2026, Tirana. Source: Facebook

Speaking in Shkodër and Lezhë, Hita emphasized the urgent need to prevent cannabis cultivation, urging authorities to identify not only growers but also financiers and organizers behind illegal operations. He described the repeated yearly emergence of such activities as unacceptable and demanded thorough case analysis to dismantle criminal networks.

Hita also placed strong focus on tackling illegal weapons possession, calling for increased field controls targeting armed individuals, the arrest of wanted persons, and the resolution of ongoing criminal cases. These measures are seen as critical for improving public safety and reinforcing the rule of law across Albania.

In addition, he instructed police units to take decisive action against illegal construction, unauthorized gambling, and other unlawful activities. Rapid response to citizen concerns and stronger cooperation with other law enforcement agencies were highlighted as key priorities.

The renewed push reflects broader efforts by Albanian authorities to address security challenges and strengthen institutional effectiveness across the Balkans.