Police Director Skënder Hita held a press conference, taking stock of the situation following the protests. According to him, violent calls have been made on social media against police officers.
He added that the police will act with the force of the law. He also had a call for parents, telling them that they should not allow their children to participate in acts of violence.
"Police structures have conducted investigations in several cities. 176 citizens have been arrested and 388 others have been prosecuted. Police officers have also been suspended for failure to respect the principle of proportionality. No police officer has received an order to exceed their powers. There are calls for violence against police officers on social networks. The police will act with the force of the law. I call on the protesters to stop violent actions and that they do not represent the students. I call on parents and family members not to allow their children to protest violently. The police will continue to enforce the law and protect the property and lives of citizens," said Hita.
Asked about rubber bullets, he stated that they were used to a limited extent.
"Rubber bullets were used in a limited manner. We have seized several tools, including screws and other hard tools. Police officers were injured by these tools ," Hita declared.
"All the tools used have been used in a limited manner and only certified equipment is used, which is allowed for such cases in European Union countries ," said Hitaj.
Skënder Hita emphasized that there are also protesters who may have been injured, but he also underlined that there is also a high number of police officers who have been injured. "There is also a high number of police officers who have been injured. The police have been peaceful, until the moment they are confronted with stones," said Hita.