The recent raid on Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj’s home and his wife’s office, during which her mobile phone was seized, has unearthed allegations that extend beyond his family. According to a court decision by Judge Atalanta Zeqiri, requested by SPAK prosecutor Olsi Dado, Veliaj is being investigated for corruption linked to a complex financial scheme. This scheme, described by Altin Dumani as an “intellectual crime,” has raised serious concerns about the misuse of his power in office.
Elman Abdule: The Controversial Figure at the Center of the Scandal
A key focus of the investigation is Veliaj’s alleged financial ties to the controversial figure Elman Abdule. Known for his association with organized crime, Abdule became a headline figure in June when SPAK seized approximately €50 million worth of assets under his name, including businesses, apartments, villas, and shops, all suspected to be the result of money laundering.
Abdule, a dual Albanian-Belgian citizen with a criminal record for drug trafficking in Belgium, is also believed to be a close associate of Veliaj. A photo of the two together, taken at Rome’s Fiumicino Airport, has fueled speculation about their relationship. The image depicts them dressed casually, suggesting a leisurely trip.
Construction Scandal in Kombinat: A Tangible Link to Corruption
The investigation has also shed light on a construction permit Veliaj approved in the Kombinat area. This permit allowed for the construction of a seven-story building by a company linked to Abdule. The site in question had previously been declared unsuitable for rebuilding homes for residents displaced by the November 26, 2019 earthquake.
Residents protested the decision, demanding the construction of new housing on the same site for those left homeless by the disaster. However, their requests were denied, with officials citing the land’s unsuitability for construction. Shortly thereafter, work began on the commercial building tied to Abdule, raising suspicions of preferential treatment. This property was later seized by the Tirana Prosecutor’s Office as part of the broader investigation into Abdule’s €50 million in assets.
SPAK’s Focus: Tracing the Financial Threads
SPAK suspects that Veliaj and individuals close to him may have benefited financially through fictitious contracts and bank transfers. The seizure of the mayor’s wife’s phone is seen as a critical step in uncovering these alleged financial dealings.
Analyst Klodiana Lala reported that SPAK has gathered evidence of financial gains among Veliaj’s close circle, possibly through fraudulent contracts. This includes a construction permit signed by Veliaj that benefitted a company ultimately owned by Abdule.
Broader Implications for Veliaj’s Political Career
The case has drawn comparisons to previous investigations, such as that of former Minister Ilir Beqja, who was scrutinized for minor irregularities rather than larger systemic corruption. However, Veliaj is now the highest-ranking public official under active investigation by SPAK, marking a significant development in Albania’s anti-corruption efforts.
The timing of this investigation raises questions about SPAK’s priorities. Critics argue that Veliaj’s alleged involvement in corruption linked to incinerator contracts or municipal tenders for the controversial 5D company may warrant greater scrutiny.
What Lies Ahead for Veliaj?
As the investigation continues, the political future of Erion Veliaj hangs in the balance. This case could either mark the beginning of the end for his political career or serve as another chapter in Albania’s ongoing battle for transparency and accountability.
SPAK’s efforts to untangle this intricate web of alleged corruption are far from over, leaving many to wonder: Is this the start of a long-overdue reckoning for one of Albania’s most prominent political figures?