Murder of Judge Astrit Kalaja: Tirana Prosecution Extends Investigation by 3 Months

The Tirana Prosecution has decided to extend the investigation deadlines for the murder of judge Astrit Kalaja by three months. According to the decision, the extension was made because further investigative actions are needed to fully clarify the circumstances of the event.

Meanwhile, the lawyer of the suspected perpetrator, Elvis Shkambi, has reacted by opposing the decision of the County Council to approve the proposal to declare the late judge a ‘Martyr of the Homeland’.

According to the lawyer, there is insufficient legal basis for such a decision, as the criminal case has not yet concluded with a final decision establishing guilt.

He argues that, given that the judicial process is still ongoing and there is no final verdict, the proposal to declare Astrit Kalaja a ‘Martyr of the Homeland’ is not supported by legal criteria.

How did the serious incident occur?

The incident occurred after the conclusion of a court session on a property case in Shkodër, which was under review at the Tirana Appeals Court.

It is learned that judge Astrit Kalaja had ruled against the party represented by Elvis and Gjon Shkambi.

Immediately after the verdict was announced, Elvis Shkambi pulled out a gun and shot three times at the judge, hitting him in the chest and leaving him dead at the scene.

During the same incident, father and son, Rakip and Ervis Kurtaj, the other party in the case, were also wounded. They are currently at the Trauma Hospital and out of danger.