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| Zihni Shahu and Pajtime Fetahu |
The Special Court Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) launched a large-scale operation on Monday targeting criminal groups in the city of Elbasan. Among those arrested were two former judges, Pajtime Fetahu and Zihni Shahu, the latter being a former head of the Elbasan Court.
Authorities also conducted searches in businesses linked to individuals under investigation. While the operation is ongoing, the identities of other detainees remain undisclosed, local media reports.
The Case of Former Judge Pajtime Fetahu
SPAK's investigation into the “Çopja” criminal group revealed deep ties between the gang and the judicial system. Former Elbasan judge Pajtime Fetahu is accused of accepting a bribe of €11,000, a gold coin, and a mobile phone purchased by the gang. The court also uncovered that the gang sought her influence on judicial decisions in their favor.
Evidence extracted from communications on the SKY ECC application showed that Fetahu maintained close connections with “Çopja” gang members through an intermediary, Arzen Mama, with whom she had a personal relationship. Gang members referred to her with the nickname “neighbor.”
Fetahu allegedly provided information to the group about legal cases she handled, enabling them to manipulate judicial outcomes. Notably, she was reportedly involved in facilitating the group’s efforts to ease charges against its members, including Ervis Daka and Altin Kamami.
SPAK documented two instances where Fetahu received unlawful benefits from Mikael Qosja via Arzen Mama: €10,000, €1,000, and a gold coin gifted for her newborn niece. Additionally, she requested a new mobile phone from the intermediary.
Before the court, Fetahu denied all accusations, claiming ignorance of the charges against her. She refrained from making public statements to the media. Currently, she is under house arrest as the investigation continues.
The Background of Former Judge Zihni Shahu
Zihni Shahu resigned approximately seven months after the vetting process for judges began, citing administrative investigations against him. He requested a 15-year disqualification from any role within the justice system.
In July 2020, Shahu formally notified the High Judicial Council (KLGJ) of his resignation. Following this, the vetting process against him was terminated, and he was officially barred from the justice system for 15 years.
Operation Overview and Broader Implications
This operation underscores the extent of criminal infiltration in Albania's judicial system. By dismantling connections between organized crime and corrupt officials, SPAK aims to restore integrity in governance and justice. The arrests of Fetahu and Shahu, alongside others, mark a significant step in the fight against systemic corruption in the country.
The operation remains active, and further details are expected as investigations progress.