State Police has ordered an internal investigation into the command structure of the Vlora Regional Police Directorate following violent incidents that occurred during a protest against a planned tourist resort in the coastal area of Zvërnec.

In an official statement released Sunday morning, authorities announced disciplinary proceedings against the entire chain of command within the local police directorate after clashes erupted between protesters and employees of a private security company hired to protect the construction site.

The move comes after video footage circulated publicly showing a private security guard allegedly punching and dragging a protester during demonstrations held Saturday in the Portonovë area near Zvërnec.

According to the State Police, the Director General ordered the creation of a special investigative team immediately after the footage emerged. The group has been tasked with reviewing all actions taken during the protest and assessing the conduct of those involved.

As part of the investigation, authorities identified and arrested in flagrante delicto Gerald Biba, a 32-year-old resident of Durrës and an employee of the private security company Major Security.

Prosecutors accuse Biba of “Unlawful Deprivation of Liberty” and “Intentional Minor Injury,” according to the police statement.

The protest was organized by local residents and activists who oppose the construction of a tourism resort in the environmentally sensitive area of Portonovë, arguing that the project threatens the region and raises concerns over land ownership rights.

The incident has intensified public scrutiny of both the role of private security personnel and the response of law enforcement authorities during the demonstration. Investigations into the events surrounding the protest remain ongoing.