Fresh Concerns Over Journalist Safety in Albania After Suspected Arson Attack on Media Worker’s Vehicle

May 08, 2026 – Albania –

Press freedom organizations have raised renewed concerns about the safety of journalists in Albania following a suspected arson attack that destroyed the car of investigative journalist Sami Curri, an incident that authorities are treating as a targeted act of intimidation.

According to a statement by the International Press Institute (IPI), the vehicle belonging to Curri, who runs the local investigative outlet Bulqizaime.al, was set on fire on the night of April 26, 2026, while parked near his home in Bulqizë in northeastern Albania. The blaze occurred in the early hours and destroyed the car, with police confirming that no other property was damaged, suggesting the attack was likely targeted.

Curri told IPI that he believes the incident was intended as a warning linked to his reporting on issues of public interest, including alleged misuse of public funds and environmental concerns. He described the attack as a “message” aimed at influencing or discouraging his journalistic work, though he said he had not received direct threats before the incident.

Authorities in Albania have launched an investigation into the case under the supervision of prosecutors, with police treating the incident as suspected intentional arson. As of the latest updates, no suspects have been publicly identified, and the investigation remains ongoing.

IPI has called on Albanian law enforcement to carry out a full and transparent investigation and to ensure accountability for those responsible. The organization also urged political leaders at both local and national levels to clearly condemn the attack and reinforce protections for independent journalism, warning that such incidents risk creating a chilling effect on investigative reporting.

Curri has stated that the attack will not deter him from continuing his work, emphasizing his commitment to local journalism and public interest reporting despite what he described as difficult working conditions.

The incident comes amid broader concerns about media freedom in Albania. Monitoring reports have documented persistent issues, including political pressure, intimidation, and limited access to information for journalists. While Albania has made some progress in aligning its legal framework with European Union standards, press freedom organizations note that structural challenges remain, particularly regarding journalist safety and independence.

Media watchdogs have previously recorded multiple incidents of threats and attacks against journalists in Albania, including cases involving physical assaults during protests and intimidation linked to investigative reporting.

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Albania: Fresh concerns over journalist’s safety following suspected arson attack