Albanian students clash with police for third consecutive day

Tear gas and water cannons deployed amid violence and property damage.

Student-led demonstrators clashed with police in Albania’s capital, Tirana, on Thursday for a third consecutive day, as protests spread to several cities and students boycotted classes, public broadcaster RTSH reported.

Protesters threw stones and fireworks at police and public buildings, while officers responded with tear gas and water cannons.

The demonstration in Tirana began with a march through several streets, passing the parliament before heading toward the Ministry of Education. Tensions escalated as protesters gathered on both sides of the street, prompting police to intervene with water cannons.

Some demonstrators were escorted by police following incidents of violence, RTSH reported.

Public buildings and businesses damaged

Protesters later marched toward Tirana Municipality, where stones and fireworks were thrown at the building. Some demonstrators also reportedly set fire to garbage containers near a school.

Property damage was reported in central Tirana, including at a commercial bank, where protesters allegedly smashed windows and doors, damaging ATMs and documents inside the offices.

Police moved to disperse the crowds, although some demonstrators remained in the city centre.

A senior police officer was reportedly injured after being struck by stones. Further details about his condition and the number of arrests were not immediately available.

Protests spread beyond the capital

The demonstrations have extended beyond Tirana, with students boycotting classes in several Albanian cities.

Police deployed additional forces to maintain public order and prevent further damage to buildings as tensions continued to rise.

Authorities have not provided further details on the scale of the unrest or the number of people detained.

Source:AA