Behgjet Pacolli questioned in Tirana over Vlora Airport dispute with business partner
Businessman Behgjet Pacolli was questioned for nearly four hours at the Tirana Prosecutor’s Office on Wednesday in connection with an ongoing legal dispute with his business partner, Valon Ademi, over ownership rights related to the Vlora Airport concession.
Why is this important: The high-profile dispute between Pacolli and Ademi has triggered a criminal investigation into serious fraud and computer fraud — putting one of Albania’s most high-stakes infrastructure projects under legal scrutiny. The Vlora Airport project is considered strategic, and internal conflicts risk stalling its completion.
Context: Speaking to journalists after exiting the prosecutor’s office, Pacolli confirmed he had been summoned “as a person with knowledge of the facts.”
Pacolli claims he holds 98% of the shares in the Vlora International Airport project through his company Mabco Construction S.A. Meanwhile, Ademi claims 49% ownership via his company 2A Group, creating a sharp legal standoff.
Tirana prosecutors have registered a criminal proceeding under charges of fraud with serious consequences and computer fraud, based on mutual complaints filed by both parties.
“I filed a complaint, and so did my brother,” Ademi stated, referring to the legal action that triggered the investigation.
While prosecutors have begun interviewing individuals connected to the case, no formal suspects have been named so far. The investigation is ongoing.
Reactions: Despite the legal battle, Pacolli insisted the dispute will not delay the airport’s construction.
“These disagreements will not stop the project,” he said.
However, the conflict has already had an impact: the Tirana Court has temporarily suspended the operations of the Vlora International Airport company due to the unresolved shareholder dispute.
What else: The Vlora Airport project, intended to be Albania’s second international airport, has been closely watched for its potential to boost tourism and economic development in southern Albania. The ongoing investigation could affect investor confidence and timelines — depending on the outcome of the legal process.
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