TIRANA, Albania — Interior Minister Ervin Demo has condemned violence during recent protests, saying an attack on Police Commissariat No. 3 in Tirana had “crossed the red line.” He said 295 people had been injured over six days of protests, including 186 police officers.
Speaking at a meeting with Prime Minister Edi Rama and senior State Police officials, Demo denounced attacks on law enforcement officers, public institutions, businesses and political party offices. He said the violence had also affected protesters, passersby and journalists.
“The attack on Police Commissariat No. 3 has crossed the red line,” Demo said, stressing that violence was incompatible with democratic society and could not be used as a means of negotiation.
“Violence has no place in a democratic society. Violence is not a means of negotiation,” he said.
According to figures cited by the minister, 295 people were injured during the six-day period, including 186 members of the police force. The figures also include protesters and other members of the public, although a detailed breakdown of the remaining cases was not provided in the statement.
Demo condemned what he described as acts of violence against police officers and institutions, as well as damage and attacks affecting businesses and political party premises. He emphasized the need to protect public order while preventing further harm to citizens and law enforcement personnel.
The minister also pledged maximum support for the State Police, saying officers would receive the backing needed to carry out their duties.
His remarks came amid heightened tensions surrounding the protests in the Albanian capital. The attack on Commissariat No. 3 was singled out by the minister as a particularly serious incident.
Demo reiterated that violence should not be treated as an acceptable form of political expression or negotiation, underscoring the importance of democratic processes and respect for public institutions.
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