An Albanian police officer has been suspended in Fier following allegations that he violated professional regulations by having an inappropriate relationship with individuals involved in the assault of a 17-year-old girl, an incident that gained public attention in recent days.

The suspension was announced by Albania’s State Police Chief, Skënder Hita, who said the officer was not identified as the person who recorded or shared the video related to the case, but that disciplinary action was taken over alleged breaches of professional standards.

“The police officer involved in the Fier incident is not identified as having released the video or made it public through the media. However, his suspension was ordered due to violations of standards and serious damage to the image of the police institution, as he entered an unnecessary relationship with the girls who committed the unlawful act,” Hita said.

Authorities have not provided further details about the nature of the alleged relationship, while internal procedures and investigations into the case are continuing.

The Albanian State Police is expected to release additional information as the review process progresses.