Albanian authorities have intervened to protect a 26-year-old woman who was admitted to a city hospital in critical condition. The Police suspect that she was sexually assaulted by three young men who had previously coerced her into using drugs.

The Vlora Court decided on Wednesday to remand two of the arrested individuals, Albi Ceno and Oltjon Tahiri, in custody. Meanwhile, the Police have issued an arrest warrant for Gentjano Mehmeti, alleging that they collaborated to incite the 26-year-old woman to use drugs and engaged in forced sexual intercourse with in a hotel in the city of Vlora.

Another person, identified as V.K, is currently wanted by the Police as a suspect related to the crime of inciting drug use.

In response, the Ombudsman called on law enforcement agencies to expedite the investigation and take prompt and effective action to hold those responsible for this reprehensible incident accountable.

The Ombudsman also noted additional incidents connected to this case, including verbal abuse, derogatory language, and threats against the life of journalist Afrovita Hysaj, who reported on the serious incident.

The Ombudsman strongly condemned any actions that threaten freedom of expression, emphasizing that such attacks are unjustifiable in a democratic society and undermine the professional courage needed to pursue the truth.

Previously, the Minister of Interior, Taulant Balla, visited the assaulted woman in the hospital and called for a comprehensive, impartial, and unhindered investigation.

He reassured victims of gender-based violence and sexual violence that they would receive protection.

Balla emphasized that while gender-based sexual violence is not a new issue in Albanian society, it has fostered a culture of impunity, which he pledged to eradicate.