Operation of the Albanian Mafia in the Republic of Macedonia
Purpose:
Albanian mafia currently represents a threat to the entire Europe, while Macedonia, a country with a 25% Albanian minority, is one of the most threatened countries in Europe. In this article, we have elaborated in more detail the scope, vision and modus operandi of the Albanian mafia in human trafficking, illegal arms and drug trade in Europe, especially in Macedonia, a country that is considered one of the home countries of the Albanian mafia. The aim is to explain the transformation of the National liberation army (NLA) into Democratic Union for Integration (DUI) and investigate underlying interconnection between the NLA with the Albanian mafia.
Design/Methods/Approach:
The methods employed include analysis of existing literature along with previously published interviews, certain statistical data, as well as opinions of people who have been interviewed in person due to their extensive experience in the fight against organized crime in Macedonia.
Findings:
During the research, the actual condition regarding the impact of the Albanian mafia in Macedonia has been investigated, and it was concluded that, both in Macedonia and throughout Europe, there was a need for more rigorous treatment of the strategy how to deal with the mafia. The thesis that the NLA has direct links with the Albanian mafia has been proven.
Research limitations / implications:
The main focus was on the progress of its activities in Macedonia, although the Albanian mafia operates on a far larger territory.
Practical implications:
This research emphasizes the actual state of operation of the Albanian mafia in several aspects, and provide a brief insight into their vision for the future. In addition, it could help significantly into the improvement of safety measures against the mafia's criminal activities.
Originality/Value:
Due to the fact that any research regarding the operations of the Albanian mafia in Macedonia is crucial for the security in the region, there is hardly any made in this field.
UDC: 343.9.02(497)
Keywords: Albanian mafia, National Liberation Army (NLA), Democratic Union for Integration (DUI), Big Albania, transformation, Macedonia