Albania’s Interior Minister, Besfort Lamallari, has called for the swift prosecution of private security guards involved in violent incidents during protests against a planned resort development in Zvërnec, while also condemning what he described as the unjustifiable inaction of police officers present at the scene.

In a statement published on social media, Lamallari said that private security personnel who allegedly assaulted citizens protesting the construction project should face the full consequences of the law, along with the companies that employ them.

“Private property security guards have no right whatsoever to use force against anyone,” Lamallari stated, arguing that not only should the individuals involved be criminally prosecuted, but that administrative investigations into the security company’s ability to legally operate should be concluded as quickly as possible.

The minister emphasized that authorities must determine whether the company demonstrated a complete inability to carry out its licensed activities in accordance with the law, a finding that could have serious consequences for its operations.

Lamallari also criticized the response of police officers from the Vlora Regional Police Directorate, many of whom were present during the protest. He described their apparent failure to intervene during the incidents as unacceptable and called for accountability within the police ranks.

His remarks come amid growing scrutiny of the handling of demonstrations held in the Portonovë area near Zvërnec, where residents and activists have opposed the construction of a tourism resort, citing environmental concerns and disputes over property rights.

The controversy intensified after footage emerged showing a private security employee allegedly assaulting a protester. Albanian authorities have since launched disciplinary and criminal investigations into the events surrounding the protest, while one security guard has already been arrested on charges including unlawful deprivation of liberty and intentional minor injury.

Investigations into both the actions of the private security company and the conduct of local law enforcement officials remain ongoing.