TIRANA, Albania — October 13, 2026 — Albania’s State Police has reported that 23 people were escorted to police stations for further procedural action following violent clashes during a protest outside the Ministry of Education in Tirana. Six National Security Force officers and one journalist were injured, according to the police statement.
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Authorities have launched an investigation to identify and hold accountable those allegedly involved in the violent incidents.
Clashes Erupt Outside the Ministry of Education
The protest began at approximately 2 p.m. on Tuesday, bringing together students, young people and other citizens who gathered to voice their concerns over education and broader social issues.
According to the State Police, some participants damaged the ministry’s external fence and entrance gate before throwing stones and other hard objects at the building’s windows and facade.
Police also alleged that masked individuals attacked officers with Molotov cocktails, pyrotechnics, stones and other objects. Officers reportedly issued repeated warnings, calling on those involved to stop the violence and leave the ministry’s courtyard.
As tensions escalated, police intervened to disperse the crowd. Water cannons were deployed during efforts to restore order, while groups of protesters subsequently regrouped in different parts of central Tirana.
Euronews Albania also reported that protesters returned to the area after an initial police intervention, with further stones and pyrotechnics reportedly thrown toward officers.
Six Police Officers and One Journalist Injured
The State Police confirmed that six National Security Force officers and one journalist sustained injuries during the confrontation.
According to the police statement, all seven injured individuals were out of danger.
The journalist’s injury highlights the risks faced by media professionals covering confrontations between protesters and law enforcement. Journalists must be able to report on public demonstrations safely and independently, including when tensions escalate.
Police Escort 23 People as Investigation Begins
Police escorted 23 people for further procedural action following the incidents.
The investigative structures of the Tirana Local Police Directorate are working in cooperation with the Tirana Prosecutor’s Office to identify individuals suspected of participating in unlawful acts during the protest.
Authorities have stated that those found responsible could face legal consequences under Albanian law.
However, being escorted to a police station does not in itself establish criminal responsibility. The authorities’ investigation and any subsequent judicial proceedings will determine whether individual suspects face formal charges and what responsibility, if any, they bear.
Protesters Demand Changes
The demonstration took place outside the Ministry of Education amid calls for changes in education and employment conditions. Participants also voiced demands for the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama, according to local media reports.
The gathering initially brought together students, pupils, teachers and other citizens. However, the situation deteriorated as confrontations developed between some protesters and police officers.
The events have once again raised questions about the management of public demonstrations, the protection of public property and the safety of both law enforcement personnel and journalists.
Police Pledge to Protect Peaceful Assembly
In its statement, the State Police reiterated its commitment to guaranteeing citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful assembly while warning that unlawful actions would be subject to legal consequences.
The investigation is expected to focus on identifying those involved in the reported attacks and damage to the ministry building.
As the investigation proceeds, the distinction between peaceful demonstrators and individuals suspected of committing violent acts remains important. Any allegations of criminal conduct must be assessed on the basis of evidence and through the appropriate legal procedures.
OCNAL.com will continue to follow developments in the investigation.