Flash News

E-TJERA

SafeJournalists: Concern over the incident against journalist Osman Stafa, full investigation required

SafeJournalists: Concern over the incident against journalist Osman Stafa, full

The SafeJournalists Network has expressed concern about reports of a verbal attack and physical threat against journalist Osman Stafa, which occurred on the evening of June 21, 2026 in downtown Tirana, following a citizen protest.

According to police data, the incident occurred at around 10:00 PM near Skanderbeg Square, where authorities were notified of a conflict between several people. Journalist Stafa filed a complaint with Police Station No. 3, claiming that he was insulted and slightly injured by unknown persons, while he was with two foreign journalists and a translator.

In a statement to SafeJournalists, journalist Osman Stafa said he felt unsafe during the incident.

"I was verbally attacked with serious insults regarding my work as a journalist. I was walking with two foreign journalists and their translator during the protest march. I was upset and felt unsafe. I did not know these people. I filed a police report and will continue to pursue the case," the journalist stated.

The SafeJournalists Network has called for a swift, impartial and effective investigation to fully clarify the circumstances of the incident, emphasizing the importance of protecting journalists in the field.

The statement underlines that journalists should be free to report on protests and developments of public interest without being exposed to threats, insults or physical violence.

SafeJournalists calls on all public and political actors to avoid language and behaviors that could jeopardize the safety of journalists, especially in tense situations.

The network has announced that it will closely follow the progress of the investigations and expects an institutional reaction to clarify the case.

Latest news