Tensions erupted during a citizens’ protest on Wednesday against the controversial development project in Zvernec, as demonstrators reportedly breached a police cordon established in central Tirana.

Dozens of protesters confronted police officers and managed to move beyond a metal security barrier that had been erected as part of security measures surrounding the Albania–Israel football match scheduled for later in the evening.

Footage from the scene showed police officers blocking access toward Mother Teresa Square and the Air Albania Stadium, where the match is expected to take place at 8:00 p.m. local time.

Authorities had installed metal fencing along key routes in the city center, including the area stretching from the Hotel Dajti intersection toward the Pyramid of Tirana and the Prime Minister’s Office.

Following the breach of the police cordon, protesters reportedly attempted to negotiate with officers, urging them to reopen access routes that had been closed due to security arrangements for the international sporting event.

No immediate reports of serious injuries or arrests were available. The situation remained tense as demonstrators continued to gather near the restricted areas.