Former Albanian Health Minister Ilir Beqaj Arrested

Ilir Beqaj's arrest has been carried out in the implementation of the Special Court's decision against Corruption”, the SPAK report said.

The SPAK gave no further details on the case, nor on what charges were he arrested.

But it is taught that his arrest relates to investigations prosecutors are conducting on a suspected corruption case when Beqaj headed the State Agency for Strategic Programmes and Assistance Co-ordination.

This agency was established in October 2021 with the Council of Ministers' decision and was on a mission to coordinate foreign assistance to development programmes and projects.

Among the responsibilities of this agency was the Ministry's support responsible for Europe in meeting its responsibilities for Albania's European Union integration process, as well as supporting diplomatic missions in co-ordinating their work with foreign donors.

In addition to Beqaj, two other officials from this agency were arrested.

Meanwhile, Ilir Beqja is being investigated another separate case, which relates to allegations of abuse in the concession to sterilise surgical equipment.

The prosecution charges him with “use of duty” over a 10-year contract for sterilizing surgical equipment.

Last year, security measures were imposed on him “due to display” to police, as well as “halting exit from state”.

Investigations into the case closed on March 18th of this year, and charges were filed against eight other people, including the deputy minister, Klodian Rejepaj, and businessman Ilir Rarapaj. These two are in custody.

The SPAK accuses them of violating the process of sterilisation concession worth 100m euros and a 10-year term, won by businessman Ilir Rerapaj. / REL/