Puke-fires-operations – Albanian Telegraphic Agency.

Lezhë mayor says Pukë fires were result of criminal act

Sonila Mehmeti — Sat, 22 Aug 2026 08:12:05 +0000

TIRANA, Aug 22 /ATA/ Lezhë Mayor Pjerin Ndreu dismissed claims that the fires were linked to the “Mountain Package” as unfounded, calling them “fairy tales” and attempts to pursue political and personal gain at the expense of a serious incident.

Referring to the fire in Gojan village, Pukë, Ndreu said the incident should prompt greater vigilance, focus and commitment from everyone to prevent wildfires.

“I have followed the situation in Gojan hour by hour, remaining in constant contact with residents, field operation leaders and Defence Minister Ermal Nufi. Thank God, there have been no casualties,” Ndreu said.

According to Ndreu, what happened was clearly the result of a criminal act.

“Someone or several people started the fire. The difficult terrain, strong winds and dry conditions then helped the flames spread rapidly, overwhelming even the heroic efforts of firefighters, residents and pilots,” he added.

Ndreu, meanwhile, said such theatrics served no one, criticising those who he said were portraying themselves as more concerned than anyone else while taking no concrete action to support residents and firefighters facing the danger, instead focusing solely on attacking the government.

“Even more absurd is the claim that the fires are linked to the ‘Mountain Package’. These are fairy tales and attempts to seek political and personal gain at the expense of a serious incident.

Before offering solutions, making accusations and assigning blame from afar, at least lend a hand in supporting the residents and those fighting the flames. What is needed today is solidarity, responsibility and concrete action, not politics at the expense of a disaster,” he added.

/m.m/ /a.g/sm/