A 20-year-old Portuguese tourist was stabbed to death on a beach in Ksamil, southern Albania, according to the Albanian public broadcaster RTSH. Following the incident, local authorities detained 11 individuals connected to the crime, while search efforts continue for other suspects.
Details of the Incident in Ksamil
The fatal confrontation began around 05:15 local time inside the “Principote” bar before escalating onto the beach in front of the “Paradise” bar, as reported by RTSH. The Portuguese victim was attacked while sitting on a sun lounger. According to the prosecution cited by RTSH, the victim was stabbed and further assaulted by another man who remains at large, as well as by four bar employees.
The primary suspect, a 29-year-old man, was captured hours later during an escape attempt toward Tirana. Police intercepted him hiding in the trunk of a vehicle driven by two Turkish citizens in Levan, Fier, in a coordinated operation involving police from Saranda, Vlore, and Fier. According to RTSH, the two Turkish nationals, aged 31 and 38, were arrested in flagrante delicto for supporting the perpetrator. The main suspect has a criminal record, having been previously arrested and convicted in England in 2024 for drug trafficking.
Arrests and Failures of Security Personnel
Albanian authorities have detained 11 people in total, with prosecutors issuing additional arrest warrants for fleeing suspects. The owner of the “Paradise” bar fled the scene without reporting the incident to authorities and is currently wanted by police, alongside the second suspected assailant.
The prosecution’s case highlights total inaction from security personnel stationed at the location, some of whom held state functions. According to RTSH, the security detail included a police officer from Gjirokastër, a prison official from Fier, and a municipal police officer. Investigators state these individuals neither intervened to stop the attack nor notified authorities afterward. Consequently, the detained bar employees, security staff, and the bar owner face charges of failure to render assistance, with the police officer facing an additional charge of failing to assist in a situation of public disorder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the incident take place?
The attack occurred in the tourist area of Ksamil in southern Albania, starting in a local bar and continuing onto the nearby beach.
How many people have been detained by authorities?
According to RTSH, at least 11 individuals have been detained in connection with the homicide, including the main suspect, his alleged accomplices, bar workers, and security personnel.
What are the charges against the security personnel?
State-employed security guards, including police and prison staff, face charges of failure to render assistance for allegedly failing to intervene or notify authorities during and after the attack.