TIRANA: Albania’s political and security circles have been thrown into turmoil after the head of the country’s State Intelligence Service, Valora Hyseni, surrendered to law enforcement authorities amid a serious investigation involving alleged corruption and abuse of power.
According to media reports, the Special Prosecution Office Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) expanded its investigation and issued an arrest warrant for Hyseni. Investigators reportedly suspect that she disclosed sensitive and classified information to unauthorized individuals during an investigation into a corruption scandal linked to the National Agency for Information Society, a key government body responsible for digital services and information technology.
Arrest and Suspension
Police sources said Hyseni surrendered to law enforcement authorities at the Morina border crossing, which connects Albania with Kosovo.
A court subsequently issued restrictive measures against her, including suspension from her post and an order placing her under house arrest, according to reports.
A senior official from the Scientific Police Institute has also been caught up in the investigation and has been taken into custody.
Fresh Pressure on Government
The development comes at a sensitive time for Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government, which is already facing scrutiny over alleged corruption involving the agency responsible for digital public services and information technology.
Several prominent figures and businesspeople have reportedly come under investigation in connection with allegations of misappropriation of funds at the agency.
Amid the widening controversy, President Bajram Begaj has signed a presidential decree formally removing Hyseni from her position, according to reports.
The case is expected to add to the political pressure surrounding the government, as investigators continue to examine the alleged disclosure of sensitive information and other suspected wrongdoing.
