SPAK Chief Klodjan Braho attended the 42nd Conference of the FBI National Academy Associates European Chapter (FBINAA European Chapter) today.

Braho said Albania has made progress in investigating and tackling organized crime.

Interior Minister Ervin Demo, State Police Director General Skënder Hita, heads of law enforcement agencies, FBINAA International President and US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Nancy VanHorn also attended the meeting.

Speaking at the conference, Braho said SPAK investigations have helped authorities understand how criminal groups operate.

They have also revealed how these groups build cross-border links. Investigators have also traced how criminals hide and move their proceeds.

“These findings can also support investigations in your countries,” Braho said.

Braho stressed the need for strong cooperation between law enforcement agencies. SPAK also supports investigations led by its international partners. In return, it expects the same commitment when it requests assistance.

“Information obtained in Albania can help solve a case in your country. Evidence provided by you can also prove decisive in an investigation in Albania,” Braho said.

He said this two-way cooperation builds trust between institutions. Braho also thanked the FBI and international partners for their support and expertise.

“We are committed to responding with the same responsibility and seriousness,” he said.

He also encouraged participants to build professional contacts during their stay in Tirana. For SPAK, Braho said, international cooperation forms an essential part of its work.

A case may start in Tirana but quickly cross borders. Investigators may need to trace communications, bank transfers and assets in several countries.

“In these cases, the progress of an investigation also depends on the colleague who understands our request, handles it responsibly and helps us secure the missing evidence,” Braho said.

He also highlighted the professional network created through the FBI National Academy. The network keeps relationships active after the training ends. It also helps turn professional contacts into concrete cooperation.

The network now includes the first graduate from Albania’s National Bureau of Investigation (BKH). Several State Police officers and other Albanian law enforcement officials have also joined the network.

Braho said a second BKH representative will soon attend the programme.

“This representation honours us. It also gives us the responsibility to share our experience with our colleagues,” Braho said.

/a.c/