The former President of Albania, Ilir Meta, one of the country’s most prominent political figures, is currently being held in Tirana’s 313 detention center, sharing the same facility with several high-profile criminal figures. Among those held in the same facility are Nuredin Dumani, Leonard Duka, Emiljano Shullazi, and Laert Haxhiu—individuals involved in notorious criminal cases and often denounced by Meta himself in public statements.
 |
| Former President Ilir Meta being escorted to prison by police officers |
This prison is known for holding individuals under investigation or trial by the Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) for severe criminal offenses linked to organized crime or terrorist organizations. Meta’s placement in this facility is intended to facilitate meetings with his lawyer as his case remains under judicial review.
Security Measures for Former President Meta
Following his security assessment, the Directorate of Prisons decided that Meta should stay in a secure and isolated cell, separate from other convicted individuals to avoid any risk of interaction or incidents. During his scheduled exercise periods, Meta is given solo access to the designated area to prevent contact with other inmates. Currently, he is being held in a monitored room where he can stay for up to 10 days before transitioning to a standard cell after routine medical checks.
Visits and Communication with Prison Staff
Sources within the detention center report that Meta has maintained calm and respectful communication with prison staff, with no issues reported regarding his behavior or security. He has received visits from his children and his attorney, Genc Gjokuajt, which were approved in advance by the prosecutors handling his case.
Meta, who is also the leader of the Freedom Party, is expected to remain at the 313 facility until SPAK concludes its investigation. Should he feel unsafe or threatened, he has the right to request relocation to another secure area within the detention system.