The SafeJournalists Network expresses deep concern about the police operation conducted in the early morning hours of August 9, 2025 against Focus Media Group in Tirana, which includes News24, BalkanWeb, Panorama and Gazeta Shqiptare.
According to the official communication of Focus Media Group, in the early hours of the morning of August 9, 2025, the State Police surrounded the building where these media outlets operate, cut off the electricity supply and, as a result, left News24 without a broadcast signal. Journalists were prevented from entering their newsrooms, effectively blocking the work of several newsrooms and depriving the public of access to the information and content on News24's broadcast. As of 10:00, News24 has continued broadcasting via its YouTube channel.
The building is reportedly the subject of an ownership dispute with the state-owned arms manufacturing company KAYO, which took ownership of the facility this year.
The SafeJournalists Network recalls that, while such disputes may occur, any action affecting the functioning of the media must follow due process, be based on a clear legal basis, and ensure minimal interference with the work of journalists and the public's right to be informed. Sufficient time must also be given to the media to relocate and secure alternative premises, in order to guarantee continuity of work and not hinder journalistic activity.
According to information released so far by representatives of Focus Media Group, there was no prior notice to the newsrooms, no court decision or legal order was published to justify the power outage and blockade, and the operation took place early on a Saturday morning, when staff and public attention are usually at their lowest. At the time of publication of this statement, the State Police or other authorities have not issued any official statement or announcement on the legal basis, reasons, or duration of this action.
Regardless of any issues that may have to do with Focus Media Group itself, its editorial line, or its internal challenges, today's unprecedented intervention is concerning and requires urgent attention from all actors committed to protecting media freedom and democratic processes.
We call on the Albanian authorities to immediately lift the blockade, restore electricity supply and ensure full and unrestricted access for journalists to their workplaces. The authorities should provide a clear public explanation of the legal basis and authorization for this action. We demand that any future measures against the media be carried out in full compliance with due process, under judicial supervision and according to the principle of minimal interference in journalistic activity.
While the primary responsibility lies with the authorities to respect and protect media freedom and citizens' right to be informed, we also call on the owners and shareholders of the media and the facilities involved to engage constructively and urgently to find a solution that guarantees the work, safety and stability of journalists and ensures uninterrupted access to information for the public.
We express solidarity with the journalists and media workers affected by the situation at News24, BalkanWeb, Panorama and Gazeta Shqiptare.
Every attack on journalists is an attack on democracy, the public interest, and fundamental human rights.
Pristina – Skopje – Sarajevo – Zagreb – Belgrade – Podgorica, 9 August 2025
Association of Journalists of Kosovo
Association of Journalists of Macedonia
Association of Journalists of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Association of Journalists of Croatia
Association of Independent Journalists of Serbia
Media Union of Montenegro
