Tirana Prosecution have strong suspicions that Muçi Shaljani, an agent killed in a November 11 shooting near Rinas, may have been recruited into the Police Oversight Agency with the backing of organized crime to serve their interests.

Investigators believe Shaljani was hired under suspicious circumstances on a three-month temporary contract, a process now under scrutiny for potential legal violations. Authorities suspect the recruitment may have been intended to provide criminal groups with sensitive information that could shield illegal activities.

The Tirana Prosecution has formally charged two senior officials of the Police Oversight Agency with abuse of office. Among them is acting head Artjol Saliasi, who is under investigation without a security measure in place, in connection with what prosecutors describe as unlawful recruitment practices.

Also under investigation is Gëzim Sala, the agency’s Director of Finance and Support Services, who reportedly approved Shaljani’s hiring under what was described as “urgent needs.” Although a lower court had previously imposed restrictions, including suspension from duty and a travel ban, an appeals court later overturned those measures, allowing him to remain in office.

According to the investigation, Shaljani was assigned surveillance duties upon being hired on September 16, 2025. However, despite being on the payroll, he allegedly did not report to work for at least two months leading up to November 11.

Shaljani was killed in a gun attack near the Rinas roundabout, in what authorities believe was a targeted assault. Prosecutors say he was not the intended victim. The suspected target was Gilmando Dani, described as a close associate of a known criminal figure, who was traveling in the same rented vehicle driven by Shaljani.

The two had reportedly just returned from Barcelona and had left the airport moments before the attack. Gunmen opened fire on the moving vehicle, killing Shaljani.

Months after the incident, authorities have yet to identify the perpetrators or those who ordered the attack. Investigations remain ongoing, with a focus on possible conflicts between criminal groups and their networks of influence.