Albania prosecutors probe ex-minister’s wealth

TIRANA, July 7 – Former defense minister, Fatmir Mediu, is now being investigated by prosecutors to determine the source of his declared wealth. The investigation may have been prompted by an investigation from the international media non-governmental organization, Balkan Insight. Last Sunday, local media reported that the general prosecutor’s office was probing Mediu’s finances, adding that charges on failing to fully declare his assets could follow. Balkan Insight reported that the former Defense Minister’s expenditures were significantly greater than what he claimed were his declared assets and income. Mediu is leader of the Republican Party, part of the governing coalition. He resigned in March following the explosion at the Gerdec disposal factory that killed 26 people and injured more than 300. Last month, the parliament also lifted his immunity to free the way for an investigation into charges of alleged abuse of power while he was in office. However, he has not been charged with any crime. Mediu has denied responsibility for Gerdec tragedy, as well as any irregularities in his finances. (Tirana Times Staff)