Scandal in Albanian football: National coach arrested

Albanian football is involved in the scandal, while women's national coach Armir Grima was arrested by State Police yesterday. The 44-year-old technician was cuffed in Shkodra during the “Oaz” operation, and he is accused of being part of the “Bayri”, one of the most wanted persons in Belgium. In total, the number of those arrested goes to 11, while 2 others have been declared on the run.

This news has shocked the country's football world, while Grima has been taking the lead in Albanian national women's football and on a mission to further the sport.

Grima has been the goalkeeper of the Vlasia football team in 1998-2001, when this team has been declared champion. He has also had the task of the team's technical director, while he has repeatedly held the coach's position at moments when the red club had problems. Grima in 2013 was a candidate for deputy The DP's in parliamentary elections. The “Oaz” police operation was extended to Tirana, Shkodra, Rotterdam and Holland.

His arrest tarnishes the image of Albanian football. In the past this sport has been the focus of international media attention after being investigated for selling matches.