New case file registered with SPAK: Artan Gaçi and Olta Xhaçka suspected of money laundering

A new investigation opened by SPAK prosecutor Olsi Dado appears to have placed Artan Gaçi, the husband of former Defense Minister Olta Xhaçka, under criminal investigation for “laundering the proceeds of a criminal offense.”

But in addition to Gaçi, the Special Prosecutor’s Office (SPAK) is also carrying out investigative checks against his wife, Socialist Party MP Olta Xhaçka, as there are reportedly data and indications that the senior official may also have been implicated in this activity.

The case was registered after investigative evidence emerged from another investigation, revealing a series of bank transactions as well as several communications on mobile phones.

It is worth recalling that one year ago, an investigation was launched against Artan Gaçi by prosecutor Olsi Dado, after a criminal complaint filed by Fredi Beleri concerning the alteration of property ownership in the southern coastal area.

But that investigation was subsequently closed by the Special Prosecutor’s Office, a decision that was later upheld by the country’s courts. Meanwhile, this is now a new investigation that has uncovered new evidence, prompting prosecutor Olsi Dado to register the case file on charges of “laundering the proceeds of a criminal offense.”

Against this backdrop, Artan Gaçi was summoned to SPAK around noon today to be questioned as a person under investigation, and was asked to appear accompanied by a defense lawyer.

Journalist Elton Qyno learned that during his time at SPAK, Artan Gaçi did not provide an explanation, having first requested access to the investigative documents and the official charge for which he had been placed under investigation and summoned to testify at the prosecutor’s office.

Unable to review the investigative documents, the BKH officer asked Artan Gaçi and his lawyer to submit a written request so that the investigative materials administered by SPAK against him could be made available.

As a result, Gaçi was allowed to leave and, after reviewing the investigative documents, he will be summoned again to provide explanations before the Special Prosecutor’s Office (SPAK). Elton Qyno/Syri