 |
| Samir Mane and Martin mane and the Albanian State Police logo in the background (modifications) |
Klodiana Lala, a renowned journalist, appeared on a television talk show to provide details about the disturbing incident. She revealed that the young Mane, while driving, hit several parked motorcycles, causing damage. Upon being stopped by traffic police, he refused to undergo an alcohol test, which is a legal requirement in such cases. This refusal led to a confrontation, and Mane was eventually taken into custody.
 |
| Azbi Spahiu, the police officer who arrested Martin mane |
One of the officers involved in the case, 57-year-old Azbi Spahiu, played a key role in the arrest. However, Spahiu later found himself under immense pressure from higher authorities. According to Lala, Spahiu was summoned by officials from the Anti-Corruption Agency (AMP) and questioned about his actions during the arrest. This intense scrutiny reportedly left Spahiu distraught. Before a shocking incident occurred, Spahiu sent a message to his son, expressing fears that his career was being deliberately destroyed. Shortly afterward, Spahiu fell from the 11th floor of a building. Miraculously, he survived but is currently in intensive care with his condition stabilized.
The incident has raised significant concerns about the treatment of Spahiu, who is seen by many as a scapegoat in a much larger power struggle. Lala described Spahiu as a professional with a high ethical standard, noting that his colleagues also regard him as a person of integrity. She emphasized the need for a full investigation into both the handling of Mane’s arrest and the events leading to Spahiu’s fall.
Additional discrepancies in the police reports have only fueled public suspicion. Initially, the police claimed Mane had hit two parked cars, but it later emerged that he had damaged motorcycles. Furthermore, while the police initially reported that Mane was intoxicated, it has since been confirmed that no alcohol test was conducted. Mane repeatedly refused both a breathalyzer and a blood test, citing his alleged health condition.
Despite Mane’s refusal to comply with standard procedures, the Prosecutor's Office quickly deemed his arrest unlawful and ordered his release, citing procedural irregularities. This decision has raised questions about whether Mane received special treatment due to his father’s immense wealth and influence as one of Albania’s most prominent oligarchs.
The case has also brought scrutiny upon the Anti-Corruption Agency (AMP), which has yet to initiate any formal investigation into the incident. Lala criticized the agency’s silence, suggesting it adds to the perception that the case is being deliberately suppressed.
"This situation is not black and white," Lala stated during her interview. "If Martin Mane was under the influence of alcohol, proper testing should have been conducted, and he should be held accountable. If the arrest was unlawful and aimed at pressuring his father, then this also requires investigation. Either way, a thorough inquiry is necessary."
The events surrounding Martin Mane’s arrest and the subsequent fallout for Officer Azbi Spahiu have cast a harsh spotlight on the state of Albania’s institutions. Public trust in law enforcement and the judiciary is already fragile, and this case threatens to deepen the perception that justice is selectively applied in favor of the wealthy and well-connected.
As Spahiu fights for his recovery, the Albanian public awaits answers. Whether the truth behind this incident will emerge or be buried in bureaucratic obscurity remains an open question. However, one thing is clear: this case has become a symbol of the broader struggle against corruption and impunity in Albania.