Other threats to journalists from Albanian Police Director General, Tirana, 14.08.2024

Translations: Tirana English 

On August 14, 2024, Police Director General Muhamet Rrumbullaku addressed media coverage surrounding the tragic death of a citizen in Pogradec city. The incident sparked concerns from the victim’s family about delays in the ambulance’s arrival and the police’s response, leading to accusations of an incomplete investigation. Journalists reported on these concerns, prompting authorities to respond.

Rrumbullaku accused journalists of spreading “fabrications and vile accusations” against the State Police, labeling their reports as “deliberate disinformation.” He announced that the State Police would pursue legal action against individual journalists and social media users.

In his remarks, Rrumbullaku troublingly asserted that only the police’s official version of the event should be considered reliable, thereby challenging the fundamental journalistic duty to verify information through diverse sources.

This situation poses a significant threat to media freedom in Albania, potentially leading to self-censorship and a weakened independent press. The SafeJournalists Network urges the State Police to immediately withdraw these threats and cease intimidating journalists and social media users reporting on matters of public interest. We emphasize respecting journalists’ essential role in independently verifying information and informing the public.