Dark Side of Albania’s Riviera: Mafia Groups Allegedly Running Resorts Along ‘Europe’s Maldives’

Albania is becoming one of Europe’s most popular holiday spots. Known as “Europe’s Maldives,” it offers turquoise waters, sunny beaches, and beautiful mountains. Tourists are drawn to its low prices, easy travel options, and quiet charm. More than 120,000 British visitors head there each year to enjoy the Albanian Riviera. Some resorts are just a three-hour flight from the UK, and drinks are very cheap, with some pints of beer costing as little as 77p.

But while the country looks peaceful and inviting, a hidden world exists behind its growing tourism industry. Experts warn that mafia groups are using some luxury hotels, bars, and beach clubs to hide illegal money. The resorts that attract tourists might be helping to support large organized crime networks.

A recent report by the Global Organised Crime Index reveals that Albania plays a big role in drug trafficking. The country is used as a key route for heroin traveling from Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan to Europe. It is also a stop for cocaine smuggled from Latin America into the UK and other parts of Europe. Over the years, drug processing labs have been found in several Albanian cities, including Elbasan, Fier, and Tirana.

In 2016, Italian officials estimated that Albania’s cannabis production alone was worth around €4.5 billion, or £3.85 billion. This shows how large the country’s illegal drug industry had become. While Albania has taken steps to fight crime, drug trafficking remains a serious issue, and some experts believe that criminal profits are being invested in the tourism sector.

Mafia groups based in Albania are also involved in human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and money laundering. These crimes do not only affect Albania. They also impact other countries across Europe. Many of the same groups that operate in Albania are linked to serious crimes abroad, especially in the UK.

In 2022, around 45,000 people crossed the English Channel illegally. Of those, 12,000 were Albanian nationals. This has raised concerns among UK officials. Some migrants may have been victims of human smuggling, while others are suspected of being part of organized crime. The UK government has called Albanian criminal gangs a serious threat, pointing to their role in the illegal drug trade and several acts of violence.

One leaked UK Home Office report described these gangs as highly active in Britain’s organized crime scene. They are believed to have strong control over the illegal cocaine market in the UK, which is worth an estimated £5 billion a year. Law enforcement agencies have linked them to violent crime and several murder cases in recent years.

Researchers say that Albanian mafia groups are not like regular gangs. Many are made up of large families that have been operating for generations. Their traditions go back hundreds of years. This history gives them a powerful structure and allows them to stay hidden. They are known to follow strict rules and keep their operations quiet. This makes them harder to catch and more dangerous.

Although Albania’s tourism industry is growing fast, the mix of crime and business raises serious questions. New resorts are being built along the coast in places like Ksamil and Vlore. These areas are popular with tourists, but some experts believe the sudden rise in luxury development may be connected to illegal funds.

Still, most tourists continue to visit Albania without any problems. The country remains safe for travelers who use common sense and choose trusted services. Visitors are advised to book hotels and transport through reliable sources and avoid unfamiliar operators with no history or reviews.

The Albanian government has promised to reduce crime and improve the country’s image. It has partnered with Europol and Interpol to fight against organized criminal networks. In recent years, dozens of suspects have been arrested, and drug routes have been targeted. Officials say that more steps will be taken to stop mafia groups from using tourism as a cover.

Tourism is important for Albania’s economy. The country hopes to attract even more visitors in the future. But the government must also make sure that the industry stays clean and does not fall under the control of criminals. As long as illegal money can move freely into hotels, clubs, and restaurants, the problem will continue.