Double parking to be treated as a criminal offense, says police chief
Albania’s State Police will begin treating double parking not as a minor infraction, but as a criminal offense, Police Director Ilir Proda announced on Wednesday, citing serious risks to public safety.
Why is this important: Double parking is widespread in Albania’s cities, blocking traffic lanes and endangering both drivers and pedestrians. Under Article 293 of the Penal Code, offenders could now face hefty fines or up to 3 years in prison. The move is part of a broader push by authorities to reclaim public space and enforce urban order.
Context: In a public statement, Proda said police forces will no longer tolerate drivers who obstruct roads, calling the practice “an ugly and dangerous phenomenon.” He emphasized that the road belongs first to pedestrians and cannot be used as “a private parking lot.”
The announcement follows a wider crackdown on illegal occupation of public spaces. Proda warned that local police units will now face direct responsibility for inaction and urged citizens to report abuse and negligence.
What’s next: Daily patrols and stricter enforcement are expected across major cities. Proda made clear that the State Police is shifting from warnings to criminal proceedings in cases of repeat or flagrant double parking.
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