Why is this important: The finding underscores how Albanian-linked groups operate across continents, sourcing cocaine directly from producers, moving multi-ton consignments to Europe, and laundering proceeds through real estate investments in Albania and EU countries.

Why is this important: The action forms part of a nationwide drive—underway for nearly a month—to free public spaces. The campaign began in Theth, where more than ten unlicensed wooden cabins in the heart of the tourist village were cleared. The Prime Minister has said the crackdown on illegal construction and encroachment will remain constant throughout the new governing mandate.

Why is this important: Spectators in the second round pre-qualifier hurled slogans like “A good Albanian is a dead Albanian,” “Gas chamber for Albanians” and “Pure Macedonia,” stark reminders of deep ethnic divides in a country where Albanians constitute nearly one third of the 1.8 million population. Such hate speech on a global sporting stage threatens to inflame tensions and tarnish North Macedonia’s multiethnic fabric.

Why is this important: The incident has led to many questions being asked over how the project could have progressed so far without intervention. The cabins were visible, installed on concrete foundations, in the heart of a protected area—raising doubts about the vigilance and resolve of local authorities and the territorial inspectorate. Critics say the fact that it took national-level intervention to remove the structures points to deep dysfunction in how local governance enforces environmental and construction laws. But the scandal has also exposed divisions between Albania’s executive and judicial institutions. Prime Minister Rama has accused Shkodër’s Prosecution Office—and specifically prosecutor Elsa Gjeli—of enabling a crime against the public interest by refusing to open an investigation, despite a formal complaint from local police. “How is it possible,” Rama asked, “that after the police and inspectorate documented the violation and referred the case, the prosecution chose to bury it?”