TRIAL After the reading of the indictment, the judicial investigation began as rarely happens: It will be the indictment that will initially prove the guilt of the defendants “Arsidi”, the first surprises Will the sensational witnesses arrive? COURT CHRONICLE — At the beginning of last week, the trial began in Tirana against the five defendants in the “Arsidi” case, who after such a long time accused of the theft of 5 million dollars from the bank branch in Durrës, after the charge was changed from a serious offense to “violation of banking rules,” were moved from the category of dangerous criminals to that of negligent officials. These were the former deputy branch director, Petraq Buda, the former chief accountant Zana Rroji, the archivist Mira Hoxha and the economist Ilia Gjergo. TIRANA — At around 10:20 a.m. on Monday, in courtroom no. 2 of the Tirana court, the much-talked-about trial began. In the defendants’ dock were also seen, handcuffed, the former deputy director Ilia Dema and the former accountant of the social branch Alma Çela. They are accused of abuse of duty, while one of them remained almost silent. According to the indictment, the defendants in this case caused the state major financial losses and, through their acts or omissions, created the conditions for the sum of 5 million dollars to disappear without a trace. In the first hearings, an unusual situation was noted: in front of the court the room was not filled with witnesses as usual, but with lawyers, relatives and curious onlookers. It was said that the arrival of several important witnesses was expected and that the prosecution would try to bring new evidence regarding the course of events. It remained to be seen whether well-known names from public life or heads of institutions, who at the time of the घटना had knowledge of the branch’s activities, would appear. INDICTMENT — Yesterday it was said that the prosecution may request the questioning of witnesses who have not yet appeared. Earlier statements were also mentioned in court, speaking of a lack of control, incomplete documentation, and responsibilities spread across several levels of banking administration. The court decided to continue with questioning the defendants and reading the case materials. The upcoming hearings are expected to show whether the “Arsidi” trial will take the direction of an ordinary administrative case or produce political and criminal surprises, as has long been announced.

Severe damage to agriculture and livestock TIRANA — The recent return of cold weather, accompanied by frost and precipitation, has caused significant damage in several areas of the country. According to reports arriving from northern and southern districts, agricultural crops, orchards, and a considerable part of livestock have been damaged. In some northern municipalities, waters have overflowed their banks, flooding farmland, while in the south frost has damaged early crops. Specialists say the damage will also be felt in market supply in the coming weeks. Local authorities have begun checks, but farmers are asking for immediate help with seeds, feed, and compensation for part of their losses.

Krujë ’94 IN ALBANIA Blasani, Asni killed her husband The young people of “Eshteism” locked in shouting KRUJË — The disagreements and constant disputes have led to another criminal घटना in a family in this district. According to local sources, after a violent family quarrel, a woman struck her husband, leaving him dead. The incident has shocked local opinion and investigations are continuing to clarify the circumstances. Police sources say the cause of the conflict is linked to long-standing quarrels and difficult economic conditions. Neighbors have been questioned, while the preliminary case file has been sent to the prosecutor’s office.

KURU — Discrepancies in payments and in the accounts of several state enterprises have created a heavy financial burden. According to preliminary data, 73 million lek were paid without full documentary backing. Financial control institutions have begun checks and concrete responsibilities are expected to emerge. Official sources do not rule out administrative measures and criminal complaints if serious violations are proven.

Will the maritime school come to Tirana? Vlora, teachers concerned about the decision VLORË — The Naval Academy and the maritime school may be transferred from Vlora to Tirana, according to a decision that has stirred reactions among teachers and staff. They say that such a move would damage tradition and the practical functioning of maritime training. According to them, the environment, infrastructure, and connection with the coast are irreplaceable for the students’ preparation. Official clarifications about the institution’s fate are expected in the coming days.

CURIOSITY REALITY A tomb under the olive roots IZER — Long searches for a hidden grave are said to have led to its discovery under the roots of an olive tree. The inhabitants of the area link this discovery to an old local story. Specialists are carrying out checks to determine the age and circumstances of the burial. The accompanying photo shows the place where the grave is believed to have been found. A tomb under the roots of the olive tree

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— A special hospital for children has been mentioned as an urgent need in this area. Residents and doctors say that the lack of such a facility forces families to travel far for basic treatments. The request has been addressed to the responsible institutions.