Albanian authorities have executed a "prison arrest" warrant for Petrit Qosja, a key suspect in the "Eko-Toxic" scandal involving the illegal transport of 2,800 tons of hazardous waste. The arrest was carried out at a hospital in Elbasan due to the suspect's current health condition.
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| At the entrance of KURUM |
Arrest Executed in Hospital Premises
Financial and Economic Crime Investigation specialists officially detained 55-year-old Petrit Qosja, a resident of Elbasan, following a security measure issued by the Court of Durrës three months ago. Due to his medical status, the police executed the court order within the Elbasan Hospital, where the suspect is currently receiving treatment.
Qosja is being investigated for "Waste Management" crimes committed in collaboration with others. His role in the case is identified as a waste agent allegedly involved in the illegal international transport of hazardous materials for treatment.
The "Eko-Toxic" Operation and the Kurum Scandal
The arrest is part of a massive investigation led by the Durrës Prosecutor's Office. In late January, authorities issued 33 arrest warrants related to the "Kurum" company scandal. The case involves approximately 2,800 tons of toxic waste that was allegedly attempted to be exported from the Port of Durrës to Thailand.
The hazardous shipment was forced to return to Albania following international alerts from OLAF (European Anti-Fraud Office) and the Basel Action Network, which flagged the potential environmental threat of the cargo.
Ongoing Legal Procedures and Investigations
To date, police have executed 21 out of the 33 original court orders, as they continue to track down individuals involved in the logistical chain. While some suspects have seen their security measures softened during the proceedings, the core investigation into the environmental impact remains active.
The Prosecution is currently building the case for trial, focusing on the violation of international transport laws and illegal waste management practices that pose a severe threat to the environment.