Arlinda Sylaj Zekaj’s killing in Vitomiricë: she is suspected to have been struck with an axe; her employer responds

Arlinda Sylaj Zekaj, 49, was found dead in her home in Vitomiricë, Peja, on the evening of October 25. Her brother-in-law, Albert Sylaj, is suspected of the killing and, according to the latest reports, is on the run.

The incident happened shortly after Arlinda returned home from the police station, where she had reported domestic violence. She had sought police assistance and was later found murdered.

At around 7:00 p.m., she was accompanied to the Peja Police Station and interviewed by investigators about the case. Her husband was also interviewed by police and was subsequently detained for 48 hours.

After the procedures, Arlinda returned to her home in Vitomiricë accompanied by a police patrol. She was taken there at around 8:58 p.m. Approximately ten minutes later, police were notified that a murder had taken place at the same location.

Officers who returned to the scene found the 49-year-old woman lifeless in the bedroom. Medical personnel pronounced her dead.

Initial suspicions are that Arlinda was struck on the head with an axe. Her brother-in-law, Albert Sylaj, has been identified as a suspect; he fled the crime scene after the incident.

The State Prosecutor’s Office and the relevant police units have been notified of the case. Investigations are ongoing to fully clarify the circumstances and locate the suspect.

The case has raised concerns about how the earlier domestic violence report was handled and how Arlinda’s safety was assessed before she returned home. The responsible institutions are expected to clarify these circumstances, while criminal liability will be determined through legal proceedings.

The company where Arlinda worked has issued a statement: