Operation against illegal constructions in Albania codenamed “Our Coast” has resulted in the demolition of 61 illegally built objects, announced Monday the Minister of Interior, Bledi Çuçi, as he revealed that the fines imposed on the subjects so far amount to ALL 94 million.

Apart from the demolitions and slapping with fines, the number of arrested has reached 29 in two weeks, while two days ago, the National Inspectorate for Protection of Territory (IKMT) extended the operation in Cape of Rodon in Durrës and it will continue in the coming days in other coastal areas.

Afterwards, the IKMT and State Police will start demolishing illegal buildings in Protected Areas, as well as in other parts of the territory. Amendments to the Criminal Code have tightened penalties for those who build without permission. For the first time penalties fall on the entire construction chain.

“During the first two weeks of the operation, the National Inspectorate of Territorial Defense has demolished 61 illegal buildings in Velipoja, Shengjin, Durres and Ksamil. The value of fines imposed so far on entities is estimated at about 94 million ALL.

Meanwhile, the State Police has arrested 29 people, as well as prosecuted several others. The operation will continue in all areas of the coast where illegal constructions have been found, to liberate these spaces from the occupiers and not to allow anyone to do whatever they want with the territory.

The time of building at will in violation of the law and in many cases damaging the environment is over. After the coastline, IKMT and the State Police will extend the operation to demolish illegal constructions in other parts of the territory”, highlighted the Internal Affairs Minister.