A 19-year-old Albanian citizen was repatriated today from Sierra Leone following an urgent appeal by his mother, who sought assistance from the Albanian State Police, claiming that her son was in danger on the African continent.
The Albanian State Police responded to the case by releasing footage of the young man's arrival in Albania, confirming the successful completion of the repatriation operation.
According to the official statement, officers from the Albanian State Police traveled to Sierra Leone, where they met with representatives of Interpol Freetown. After the necessary coordination, the 19-year-old was able to return to Albania without any issues.
Full Statement from the Albanian State Police:
The Albanian State Police, after receiving an electronic request from the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, acted upon the plea of a mother seeking state assistance for the return of her son. The woman claimed that her 19-year-old son had been kidnapped in Freetown, Sierra Leone, but later managed to escape and seek refuge at a local police station.
Based on information exchanged between the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and the State Police, it was determined that the young man was in severe emotional distress. Given the circumstances, it was necessary for specialized police officers to intervene and escort him back from Freetown to Tirana.
Immediately, the State Police organized a team comprising officers from Interpol Tirana and the Special Unit RENEA to travel to Sierra Leone. They worked closely with the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to handle visa arrangements and coordinated with the Albanian police liaison officer stationed at the Albanian Embassy in London, UK.
Interpol Tirana also collaborated with Interpol Freetown to expedite the teenager’s return. Upon arrival in Sierra Leone, the Albanian officers held meetings with Interpol Freetown representatives, and after completing all required procedures, successfully facilitated the young man's journey back to Albania without any complications.
The mother of the 19-year-old has expressed her gratitude to the Albanian State Police and the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs for ensuring her son's safe return.
The Albanian State Police also extended their appreciation to their international counterparts for their cooperation, assistance, and support in carrying out this repatriation operation.