A major investigation into alleged irregularities in 12 public procurement tenders has resulted in 32 defendants, with only one currently in custody, as Albania's Special Prosecution Office (SPAK) moves toward the conclusion of its investigation.

The case, led by prosecutor Dritan Prençi, involves allegations of corruption, violations of equal treatment in public procurement, money laundering and abuse of office. Former Deputy Prime Minister and former Infrastructure and Energy Minister Belinda Balluku is among the main defendants, alongside a number of senior public officials and prominent businesspeople.

According to information previously reported by Top Channel, the list of defendants includes former ministry Secretary General Viola Haxhiademi, former railway director Ergys Verdho, former Albanian Road Authority (ARRSH) officials Evis Berberi and Gentian Gjyli, as well as businessmen Ram Geci, Artan Sako, Pandeli Carapuli and Paqsor Buzi.

Of the 32 defendants, only Evis Berberi, the former head of the Albanian Road Authority, is currently behind bars. He was among the first officials arrested by SPAK. Investigators reportedly uncovered communications between Berberi and Balluku on his phone, which helped investigators examine the alleged chain of involvement in the disputed procurement procedures.

The investigation focuses on several major infrastructure projects, including the Llogara Tunnel, the Outer Ring Road of Tirana, sections of the Porto Romano road, and the construction of the Albcontrol building.

Former ARRSH director Gentian Gjyli appeared before SPAK on Friday to formally receive the charges against him in connection with the alleged irregularities in the tender procedures.

The case also involves two construction companies, Eurocol and Alko Impex General Construction, which are included in the list of defendants as legal entities.

In the case of businessman Pandeli Carapuli, the alleged active corruption offense is reportedly time-barred. He and his company instead face money-laundering allegations linked to a villa in Dhërmi, which has been seized by SPAK.