Albania’s Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) published its 2025 annual report on Monday. In the section addressing the freezing of cryptocurrency assets, the report states that more than €45 million in assets and cryptocurrencies have been seized.

According to the report, during 2025 the Special Prosecution Office undertook concrete measures to increase the active role of prosecutors, improve the quality of investigations, and strengthen criminal prosecution for the offenses that are most concerning for public order and security.

Regarding money laundering, during 2025 the total value of assets seized and confiscated by SPAK was around €45.4 million, including cryptocurrencies. Financial investigations have significantly improved the identification of money-laundering networks and their international connections.

In terms of investigations initiated ex officio, out of 294 new criminal proceedings registered in 2025, 109 cases were initiated directly by prosecutors. This represents about 37% of the total number of new proceedings for 2025. In 2024, this figure stood at 19.8% (65 investigations initiated ex officio out of 328 new criminal proceedings). This indicator reflects an increased commitment not to rely solely on referrals from other institutions, but to take a proactive role in identifying and prosecuting criminal offenses.

Regarding the fight against corruption, particularly at high levels, SPAK investigated 27 criminal cases in 2025 (including ongoing and newly registered proceedings), involving 30 individuals under investigation or indicted, who are current or former high-level officials. Investigations in these cases were carried out following professional standards and aimed at sending to court cases supported by complete and solid evidence.

With regard to financial investigations, the Special Prosecution Office has strengthened the practice of conducting financial investigations alongside criminal investigations. During 2025, 13 asset-related proceedings were registered at the Special Prosecution Office, and 18 asset referrals were handled concerning individuals subject to the application of Law No. 10192, dated 3 December 2009, on preventive measures against organized crime.