In major success for Police, SPAK, one of Albania’s most wanted crime bosses has been arrested
Astrit Avdyli, who had been on the run for several weeks, was apprehended by RENEA police Special Forces based on a warrant issued by the Special Structure against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK).
Avdylaj had been evading capture since mid-May, when he was among 50 individuals, including crime bosses from 7 criminal groups operating in Albania and abroad, as well as several police officers accused of cooperating with organized crime. SPAK issued arrest warrants for them as part of Operation Revanshi. This operation dealt a heavy blow against organized crime in Albania and was made possible through the decryption of the Sky and EncroChat apps.
Avdylaj is suspected of involvement in securing a contract killer and logistical support for another crime boss to assassinate Durim Bani, a fellow high-profile criminal who was arrested last week in Dubai. Mr. Bani is accused of being a contract killer responsible for numerous executions, including that of the brother of former parliament member Arben Ndoka. Wiretaps indicate that Ndoka, expelled from parliament due to the decriminalization law passed in 2016, contacted Avdylaj to eliminate Mr. Bani in retaliation for his brother’s murder.
Astrit Avdylaj has previously faced justice for accusations of drug trafficking and other serious crimes, including murder. His criminal activities date back to the 1990s, yet he has consistently managed to either evade punishment or significantly reduce his sentences. He was previously sentenced to 16 years in prison for murder but served only 10 years after providing a medical report stating he suffered from depression and had attempted suicide.
Mr. Avdylaj’s ability to evade punishment and continue operating despite his involvement over many years is not unique. For decades, a corrupt justice system allowed numerous criminals to remain free. It remains to be seen whether the new justice system will function differently. Based on its current performance, there is reason to be optimistic that a new chapter has begun in the fight against organized crime.
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