Violent escort incident in Kuçovë leaves police officer injured after suspect grabs firearm
A State Police officer was injured after being shot with his own service weapon during a violent escort incident in Kuçovë, Albania, on Monday evening.
The incident occurred while officers were transporting a 45-year-old man from Fier to the Kuçovë police commissariat following his arrest for disturbing public order.
According to police sources, the situation escalated around 7:00 PM when the detainee suddenly became physically aggressive toward a 20-year-old patrol officer. During the struggle inside the police vehicle, the suspect managed to seize the officer’s firearm and opened fire, injuring him.
Police colleagues quickly intervened, overpowering and disarming the suspect before further shots could be fired. The injured officer was transported to hospital and is reported to be out of life-threatening danger.
Cocaine found on suspect after arrest following Kuçovë police shooting
After being subdued and arrested, the suspect was searched by officers, who reportedly discovered a quantity of suspected cocaine hidden on his body.
The discovery added a possible drug-related dimension to the case, which remains under active investigation. Authorities have not confirmed whether narcotics influenced the suspect’s behavior during the incident.
AMP launches investigation into police escort procedures and security protocols
A joint investigation has been launched by the Agency for Police Oversight (AMP) and the Prosecution Office to clarify the full circumstances of the shooting.
Investigators will examine how the suspect managed to take the officer’s weapon during transport and whether all required escort safety procedures were followed correctly.
The incident has raised concerns over detainee transport security and operational protocols within the Albanian police system, prompting a full procedural review.