Albania: Heightened security in deployed in central Tirana after police clash with rival political factions Jan. 8

Event

A heightened security force presence is in place in central Tirana Ja. 8 following earlier clashes between police and supporters of rival Democratic Party (PD) factions earlier in the afternoon. According to reports, police used water cannons and tear gas to disperse protesters who attempted to storm the PD headquarters, located on Bulevardi Zhan D'Ark. The protesters were comprised of rival factions of PD supporters who are embroiled in an internal dispute over the leadership of the party. Officials haven't confirmed if any injuries occurred, though they did make a number of arrests.

Security forces will almost certainly remain deployed to monitor any further gatherings that may occur. Localized ground travel delays are likely near the PD headquarters. Further confrontations between police and protesters are possible if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse or if they are overly disruptive.

Advice

Avoid the impacted area as a standard precaution. Plan for localized ground travel delays for the remainder of Jan 8. Heed the directives of local officials.