TIRANA, Oct. 7 – Albania’s government has appointed Gledis Nano as the new head of the Albanian State Police, a day after the resignation of the former chief, Ardi Veliu.
Nano takes on the job of the country’s top police officer following a 20-year career in the ASP, including five years as the head of the Counter-Terrorism Directorate.
He has had several training sessions, including at the FBI and has worked closely with international partners to lead successful operations
Nano takes on the top job following the departure of Veliu, who resigned for personal reasons just short of the end of his term, according to a letter to Prime Minister Edi Rama.
Veliu’s resignation coincided with a 100-day deadline set by Prime Minister Rama to improve law enforcement performance and followed several high profile crimes.
Veliu had often been the focus of criticism, especially when serious criminal events have shaken the country. But he has enjoyed the support of Prime Minister Edi Rama who praised Veliu as he was leaving the top police job for acting “with honesty, professionalism and special dedication.”
Albania’s opposition Democratic Party said Veliu was leaving “in shame”.
“Without the departure of Edi Rama, there will never be a serious fight against crime, honest police officers will continue to feel betrayed and demotivated, and serious criminal events will continue to shake our cities,” DP General Secretary Gazmend Bardhi said in a statement.
