The drama at the port of Durrës escalates: New revelations about the fictitious Croatian company and possible criminal links - German media write-up

The multibillion-dollar port of Durrës project, once promoted as the economic heart of Albania, is increasingly becoming a symbol of international intrigue, political blunders and shady dealings. The latest revelations reveal a complex web of fictitious Croatian companies, international trade links and suspected criminal structures, calling into question the credibility of Prime Minister Edi Rama's government.

The history of the controversy in the port of Durrës

For years, the port of Durrës has been at the center of political and economic debates. The initial contract with the German company EMS Shipping Trading GMBH, aimed at managing the port, caused a stir. However, the Albanian government unilaterally terminated the contract to pave the way for a new tourism project.

The turning point came in July 2024, when EMS suddenly withdrew the international lawsuit and sold the concession for 13 million euros to a Croatian company, Schapha doo. This transaction, which at first glance seems routine, has raised many questions.

Schapha doo: A fictitious company with hidden purposes

Experts in Berlin and Brussels have questioned why a small Croatian company would take on such a risky contract. Investigations suggest that Schapha doo is a fictitious company with close ties to powerful Croatian actors and Albanian interests. Its purpose seems to be to secure control over the new strategic port of Porto Romano.

MAERSK's role and dark links

In this matter, a key role of the former director of the port of Durrës is highlighted. Information shows that his actions were carried out with the knowledge and approval of the Minister of Infrastructure, Belinda Balluku. The latter allegedly gave instructions to make contacts with the multinational company MAERSK. MAERSK's regional director for the Adriatic is described as a central figure in this network.

The result? With Schapha doo as a front, a local Albanian oligarch, with the support of MAERSK's regional managers, can secure the exclusive rights to manage the new port for the next 45 years. Critics suspect that the tendering process, still not officially announced, is rigged and predetermined for certain actors.

A global network from Croatia to Latin America

The revelations take on global proportions, as the owners of Schapha doo have ties to Ecuador and Colombia. Various sources express concerns that these countries could be used as strategic points for drug trafficking routes, including Albania, which is already monitored by the DEA.

Consequences for Albania

These discoveries can have great consequences for Albania. Experts warn that the lack of control of international investors may have inadvertently favored criminal networks. Meanwhile, the Albanian government, led by Prime Minister Edi Rama and Minister Balluku, is facing harsh criticism, both in the country and abroad. The opposition has used this situation to accuse the government of corruption and mismanagement.

At the international level, the case may negatively affect the confidence of European and German investors. The role of MAERSK, a respected multinational company, is expected to attract the attention of the media and global institutions.

A wake up call

The crisis of the port of Durrës shows Albania's attempt to balance between economic development and dark political networks. International actors and the European Union can demand independent investigations and transparent processes to restore trust.

In this battle, Albania not only risks a multi-billion dollar project, but also its image as a developing country that aims to attract foreign investors and maintain stability in a fragile region.

Source: Focus.de