Albanian protesters clash with police, injuring 12 officers

Opposition Democratic Party supporters clash with police in Tirana. Protesters also tried to force their way into Parliament after a government decision to demolish their houses for a new road. (Reuters)

• Protests followed government announcement of plans to pull down 317 buildings to expand the road circling Tirana
• Authorities say they will buy the land and buildings from those with proof of ownership and pay the rest three years’ rent

TIRANA, Albania: Several hundred Albanian protesters have scuffled with police as they tried to force their way into Parliament to protest against a government decision to demolish their buildings for a new road.
A police statement Thursday said 12 policemen and three protesters were injured.
Police said 11 protesters were detained for questioning and they are looking for more, especially seeking to identify those who “exerted violence against police and urged other protesters to violent acts.”
Earlier this month, the government announced plans to pull down 317 buildings to expand the road circling Tirana, the capital. Authorities say they will buy the land and buildings from those with proof of ownership and pay the rest three years’ rent.
Protesting residents have blocked the road daily.
Prime Minister Edi Rama called on the protesters “to get what the law gives to you and go away from the road!”