Notorious mobster to be extradited to Albania today from Dubai
One of Albania’s most wanted fugitives, Florenc Çapja, will be extradited this afternoon from the United Arab Emirates to Albania, according to State Police. The 44-year-old is expected to land at Rinas Airport around 16:00.
Why is this important: Çapja’s extradition marks a rare breakthrough in high-profile international fugitive cases. He has been sought for over a decade in connection with multiple serious crimes, including a double homicide.
Context: Authorities say Çapja had been living undisturbed in Dubai for nearly eight years. His arrest and extradition were made possible through coordinated intelligence-sharing between Albanian and foreign law enforcement agencies.
Çapja will be sent to a high-security prison to serve a life sentence upon arrival. He is accused by SPAK of ordering tw murders in 2012.
What else: Florenc Çapja is the nephew of Ardian Çapja, leader of a powerful criminal group in Elbasan. The family has long been involved in violent rivalries, including with the faction led by Suel Çela, who organized crime group is also being dismantled by SPAK and the police.
In addition to the double homicide, Çapja is suspected of organizing other murder plots and engaging in transnational criminal activities.
Go deeper
Lara Colturi to continue representing Albania in skiing
Published on April 30, 2025
Why this is important: Colturi’s decision gives Albania a historic opportunity: for the first time, the country will field four athletes in alpine skiing at a Winter Olympics. Her continued presence in the national team is seen as a significant step in building Albania’s international sporting profile.
Italy to convert Albania’s migrant centers into repatriation facilities
Published on March 28, 2025
Slovak President Pellegrini visits Albania, pledges stronger ties and EU support
Published on March 28, 2025