A total of 347 people have been injured during two weeks of violent protests in the Albanian capital, Interior Minister Ervin Demo announced at a press conference alongside State Police Director General Skënder Hita.

According to figures presented by Demo, the injured include 200 police officers, 107 protesters and 39 bystanders, including journalists. The figures highlight the scale of injuries sustained during the recent demonstrations.

Addressing allegations of police violence against citizens, Demo said seven police officers had been suspended from duty and are under investigation. The Professional Standards and Internal Affairs Directorate (AMP) is also examining dozens of cases referred by citizens or identified through specific investigations.

“The past few weeks have been extremely challenging for the State Police, with a negative toll in terms of injuries,” Demo said, stressing that authorities must guarantee both the constitutional right to protest and proportionate police intervention.

State Police Director General Skënder Hita separately reported that 201 police officers had been injured during the demonstrations.

Hita said authorities had identified 52 individuals suspected of involvement in violent acts, despite attempts to conceal their identities. Investigators are continuing to review security camera footage and gather evidence, he added.

He also urged parents to prevent minors from becoming involved in violent demonstrations, emphasizing that police would act in accordance with the law.

“The right to protest is not prohibited, but violence cannot be justified,” Hita said.

The latest figures come amid growing scrutiny of the authorities’ handling of demonstrations in Tirana, particularly regarding the use of force and the protection of citizens, journalists and law enforcement personnel.