Violent Anti-Government Protests Escalate in Albania's Capital

The capital of Albania is facing its fifth consecutive day of violent unrest. Protesters engaged in direct clashes with riot police in Tirana throughout Saturday.

The movement is demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama. University and high school students have joined groups protesting against unemployment and allegations of government corruption.

Groups threw rocks and gasoline bombs at security forces. Cars and trash bins were set on fire to create barricades in the city's central streets.

Police responded with tear gas and water cannons. Authorities confirmed the limited use of rubber bullets to contain the crowd near the government cabinet office.

The official tally over the five days of unrest reports 167 arrests and 132 injured police officers. On Saturday alone, nine protesters and four officers received medical treatment. Seven officers have been suspended pending an investigation into suspected abuse of authority during the operations.

Prime Minister Edi Rama declared that he does not intend to resign. He visited damaged businesses and stated that he plans to engage in dialogue with the students.