For six hours, the mayor of Tirana, Erion Veliaj defended himself this Wednesday in front of the Special Court against Corruption after the arrest for corruption just a day ago. 

During the same session are being heard the businessmen Elman Abule, Gentian Sula, Fatmir Bektashi, Meriman Palushi, Sokol Kryeziu and Shkelqim Fusha.

The judge of the case, Erion Bani who approved the measure of imprisonment for Erion Veliaj and house arrest for his wife Ajola Xoxa explained that there is a suspicion that they may flee, and that they risk committing crimes as serious as those for which they are being investigated.

For Erjon Veliaj, the court recalls that he continues to exercise public functions and there is a risk of abusing his office. There is also a risk of tampering with evidence and witnesses.