Fires in Mirditë Force Evacuations as Flames Threaten Three Villages, Authorities Suspect Deliberate Arson

A wave of fires broke out in Mirditë around lunchtime on Friday, spreading rapidly and creating a serious emergency. The flames endangered three villages—Tenë, Kodër Rrëshen and Malaj—prompting authorities to order the evacuation of several families from their threatened homes.

Firefighting crews, army forces and other emergency units were deployed to deal with the situation. Because of the rugged and difficult terrain, the operation was supported from the air by two helicopters, which dropped water on the fire hotspots.

After several hours of intensive efforts, the threat to homes was averted and the situation stabilized. However, the fire has still not been fully extinguished; several hotspots remain active, forcing firefighting crews to stay on full alert to prevent the flames from reigniting.

The Mayor of Mirditë, Albert Melyshi, and the Bishop of the Diocese of Rrëshen, Dom Gjergj Meta, raised concerns that the fires may have been set deliberately, citing suspicions over their recurring nature.

Defense Minister Ermal Nufi was in the affected areas to closely monitor the progress of the operation. In a statement to the media, he stressed that cooperation between central and local authorities had been crucial in averting a greater tragedy. “Two hours ago, the situation in the village of Tenë was extremely critical because of a highly aggressive fire,” Minister Nufi said. He explained that municipal forces and local firefighters arrived immediately and air support was requested. “We managed to deploy two Air Force helicopters to intervene because the rugged terrain made operations from the ground difficult. The situation is now under control, but it is concerning that two to three fire hotspots are reported every day in Mirditë. This defies all human logic. Nevertheless, identifying the causes remains the responsibility of the Police,” he added.

Large areas of forest have been swept by the flames, leaving considerable damage to the ecosystem. Authorities are monitoring the situation continuously and have confirmed that the operation will continue until every fire hotspot has been completely neutralized.