One of the most widely shared photos from yesterday's protest in Tirana is that of a police officer forcibly holding a young man, during a confrontation on the street. The image, which quickly circulated on social media, has reignited the debate over the way the police intervened against protesters during the fourth day of the revolt.
The young man in the photograph has been identified as Muhamet Skana, who, according to media reports, was left injured after police intervention at the Ministry of Education.
According to reports from the Trauma Hospital, Skana suffered spinal injuries and memory loss. Journalist Denada Jushi reported that the young man was conscious, but initially did not remember anything from the incident. Footage published by the media also shows that, after he crashed into the asphalt, he was hit by other officers while on the ground.
Later, a family member of Muhamet Skana confirmed to News24 journalist Kristina Belba that the young man had injuries to his skull and spine, but was out of danger and had gradually begun to recall the event.
According to some media outlets, the two police officers involved in the rape of the young man have been suspended from duty. In the meantime, the full circumstances of the incident and the responsibilities for the use of force remain to be clarified.
The photograph of Muhamet Skana has become one of the most powerful images of the four days of protests in Tirana. In a capital city where attacks on police, damage to institutions and violent clashes have been documented, his case raises a question that demands answers from the authorities: What justified the use of such force against a young man, and was the police intervention in accordance with the law?
