A married couple was hospitalized after being violently assaulted by a group of masked individuals in the northern Albanian town of Fushë-Arrëz on Wednesday morning, according to statements provided by the victims.

Skënder Nika and his wife, Bardhe Nika, were reportedly attacked with blunt objects near their home shortly after dawn. Both sustained injuries and were taken to hospital for medical treatment.

Speaking from the hospital, Skënder Nika said the incident occurred shortly after he returned from work at around 6 a.m.

“I had just finished work and arrived home when five or six masked men approached me,” he said. “They were armed and carrying sticks. They beat me and then attacked my wife as well.”

According to Nika, the assailants threatened the couple and warned them not to call for help during the attack.

The victim said he has no major ongoing disputes but suggested the assault may be linked to long-standing disagreements with another family in the village. He cited a recent conflict involving wild strawberries and grazing land in the mountain area, as well as accusations made against him several years ago.

“Four days ago, I had a dispute with a family from the village over strawberries,” Nika said. “I had also had problems with the same people four years ago. They accused me of informing on them. I have always denied those allegations.”

Nika stated that he suspects members of the Balaj family may have been involved, although no official accusations have been confirmed by authorities.

Police have not yet announced any arrests or identified suspects in connection with the attack. An investigation is underway to establish the circumstances of the incident and determine those responsible.

The assault has raised concerns in the local community, where authorities continue efforts to clarify the motive behind the violent attack.