Balluku case: Albanian media report 31 accused people and companies
Albanian court reporters published further details on 30 October about the corruption investigation involving former deputy prime minister Belinda Balluku. The reported list comprises 31 individuals and legal entities.
According to Shqiptarja/Report TV and Balkanweb, the Balluku case includes former officials, businesspeople and two companies. Citing documents it reviewed, Report TV says five construction entrepreneurs have also been charged. They include Arbër Abazi, reportedly accused of active bribery and document forgery. The allegation is that he rewarded Balluku with a villa for a contract covering part of Tirana’s ring road.
Balkanweb also reported on 30 October that former roads authority director Evis Berberi had been notified that the investigation against him was complete. The broadcaster says he is accused of violating equal participation in nine tenders. The wider case concerns projects including the Llogara tunnel and infrastructure around Tirana and Durrës. A2 CNN reported on 28 October that defendants have ten days after notification to lodge objections before the file goes to the special court for preliminary judicial review.
