Fier Prosecution Office wrapped up the investigations and has taken Azgan Mernica for trial on charges of ‘Murder of the State Police Officers,’ ‘Illegal manufacture and possession of firearms, explosives and ammunition’ and ‘Driving vehicles inappropriately,’ as stipulated in Articles 79/b, 278/1, and 291 of the Criminal Code.

The investigation into criminal case no. 689 of 2024, based on the material submitted by Fier Local Police Directorate, revealed that on May 13, 2024, at approximately 13:30, in the village of Baltëz, Administrative Unit Dërmenas, Fier Municipality, the defendant Mernica fatally shot State Police Officer Novruz Cenalia, who was wearing the distinctive 'Shqiponja' Special Forces uniform, ensuring his immediate recognizability.

The conflict between the victim and the defendant stemmed from an incident in which the defendant, while driving his vehicle, took a sharp turn at high speed without assessing the road, creating a danger to other road users.

The victim drew the defendant’s attention, causing him to stop and exit his vehicle with a bag containing a firearm. The defendant approached the victim, who had not exited his car, drew the pistol, and shot the police officer, in the face, causing his immediate death.

Fier Prosecution Office expresses its full commitment to promptly investigate  and hold accountable those responsible for crimes against life and state authority.