Former Prime Minister Sali Berisha on Monday described a group of protesters arrested during the April 17 demonstration as “unconquerable heroes,” as tensions escalate between Albania’s opposition and law enforcement authorities.

The individuals were detained in flagrante by police after allegedly being found with Molotov cocktails during the protest. Berisha, however, dismissed the accusations, claiming there is no evidence to support the charges.

“They are true heroes of conscience, unwavering defenders of the social conscience of Albanians and of civic courage,” Berisha said. “They are absolutely all without any evidence, without any facts, without any documents.”

In response to both the arrests and the tactics used by police during the protest, the Democratic Party has filed a criminal complaint against several senior law enforcement officials. Those named include Interior Minister Besfor Lamallari, General Director of Police Skënder Hita, and Deputy Director Sokol Bizhga, among others. The opposition alleges that at least 10 criminal offenses were committed.

Berisha also made strong accusations regarding the conduct of police during the protest, alleging the use of hazardous chemical agents. He claimed substances deployed were significantly more potent than standard crowd-control tools and could pose serious health risks.

Separately, protester Aulon Kalaja filed an individual complaint against police officers, stating he lost consciousness after being exposed to irritant spray.

Speaking outside the Special Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK), where he appeared as part of a legal obligation, Berisha warned of further legal action. He announced plans to file another criminal complaint against former head of SPAK, Altin Dumani, accusing him of ties to convicted construction figures and of improperly closing an investigation related to Irena Gjoka.

The developments mark a further escalation in the ongoing political and legal clashes between Albania’s ruling institutions and opposition forces.