In a dramatic turn of events, former Albanian President Ilir Meta was arrested on Monday on allegations of money laundering and corruption.
His spokesperson confirmed the news after Meta was taken into custody in Tirana upon returning from Kosovo.
Local media reported that he was removed from a vehicle by masked police officers and transported in a special forces van, leading to a public outcry.
READ ALSO: TEARS! Palestinian Girl Carries Injured Sister to Safety in Gaza (+VIDEO)
Tedi Blushi, Meta’s spokesperson, condemned the arrest as “inappropriate,” asserting that it would be denounced by “all patriotic and honest Albanians.”
Images circulating in the media showing Meta resisting arrest fueled speculation about the political motivations behind the operation.
Blushi warned that the government “will pay the price in every street and in every square,” hinting at potential protests in response.
Meta, 55, faces serious charges stemming from an investigation by Albania’s Special Prosecutor for Corruption (SPAK), including accusations of concealing wealth and financial misconduct.
Having served as president from 2017 to 2022, Meta’s political career includes roles as prime minister and parliamentary speaker.
His presidency was marked by contentious relations with the ruling Socialist Party, which had initially supported his rise to power.
The Socialist Party even attempted to remove him from office twice—once in 2019 for blocking local elections and again in 2021 for allegedly interfering in general elections.
Meta is not alone in facing legal scrutiny; last month, Democratic Party leader Sali Berisha was indicted on similar corruption charges, which he denies.
READ ALSO: Liam Payne Had ‘Pink Cocaine’ in His System at Time of Death – Reports
The opposition claims that Prime Minister Edi Rama is using legal measures to target political rivals, a claim the government refutes.
With tensions escalating between the ruling and opposition parties, unrest is growing in Albania’s political landscape, evident in recent protests sparked by the sentencing of Democratic Party member Ervin Salianji.