“Fast” Operation in Malësi e Madhe: Gentjan Handraj, alias Gentjan Hotaj, Wanted by Spain for Drug Trafficking, Arrested

Gentjan Handraj, alias Gentjan Hotaj, 39, born in Koplik, has been provisionally arrested in Malësi e Madhe after being internationally wanted by the Spanish justice system. His arrest was made during the police operation codenamed “Fast”, carried out by the specialized FAST Albania structures in cooperation with the Shkodër Local Police Directorate.

The 39-year-old was located and arrested following an exchange of information and operational coordination between the State Police and their Spanish counterparts, as part of efforts to trace individuals attempting to evade justice.

Handraj had been declared internationally wanted by Interpol Madrid. On July 8, 2026, just a few days ago, Spanish judicial authorities had ordered the security measure of “remand in custody” against him.

In the Spanish investigation file, he is accused of drug trafficking and participation in a criminal organization.

Investigations conducted in Spain suggest that the illegal activity was organized in a structured manner and aimed to trade and distribute prohibited substances through an organized criminal group.

Following the arrest and escorting of the 39-year-old, Interpol Tirana immediately initiated official procedures. In close coordination with the Spanish authorities, the necessary legal steps are being taken for his extradition to Spain as soon as possible, where he will face the charges brought against him.