Albania introduces hefty penalties for violent protests and special register of suspects

According to Euronews, fines ranging from €110 to €1,100 are foreseen for participating in banned gatherings, concealing one's identity, and failing to comply with police orders, while penalties in certain cases could reach €5,500.

Blocking roads during protests will be punishable by a fine of €55 per person for each day of the blockade.

With the prefect's approval, police will be able to ban or restrict gatherings near educational, healthcare, and government institutions for up to 72 hours if there is a serious and imminent risk of violence or damage.

In certain protected areas, police will also be able to order individuals to leave for a period of up to 48 hours.

The measures also provide for the recording of police warnings and violent incidents, as well as action against individuals who use social media, email, or telephone calls to incite violence.

The police will be able to request the removal of such content.

Electronic register of suspects

A special electronic register will include individuals who have been referred for prosecution or are under investigation for violent criminal offences committed during public gatherings.

Border police will have limited access to the register and, in certain cases, will be able to impose an administrative ban on leaving the country.

The data will be deleted if the prosecution decides not to initiate proceedings or dismisses the case.

The measures were approved by the government of Prime Minister Edi Rama following violent protests.