DNA Tests Confirm Identity of Body Found in Central Albania as Missing 34-Year-Old Man

DNA testing has confirmed that a body discovered several days ago in the village of Cërrunjë belongs to 34-year-old Eglant Koçi, who had been missing since June 4, according to local media reports.

Although investigators had already strongly suspected that the remains were those of Koçi, forensic DNA analysis provided definitive confirmation. Authorities had based their initial assessment on several identifying factors, including a surgical scar, shoe size, and the black clothing found on the body, matching the outfit Koçi was last seen wearing before his disappearance.

The body was found in an advanced state of decomposition following nearly two weeks of intensive search operations involving Albanian police forces, supported by security units from Kosovo and aerial drone surveillance.

Koçi's family is now expected to collect the body from the morgue in Tirana.

The circumstances surrounding his death remain under investigation. Authorities suspect that Koçi may have been killed by his friend, Armando Shakaj, who has been wanted by police for several weeks and remains at large.

Law enforcement agencies continue their efforts to locate the suspect and determine the full circumstances of the case.