Albania's 2023 police raid on MEK camp Ashraf-3 and US distancing from the group
AP, AFP via VOA, RFE/RL and Al Jazeera coverage of the June 2023 Albanian police search of Ashraf-3, the camp of the MEK led by Maryam Rajavi, over suspected banned political and cyber activity. The group said a member died; police denied causing it. A US statement said it does not see the MEK as a viable democratic opposition. Reported language only.
Editorial timeline of public reporting, not a legal finding.
- Albanian police search Ashraf-3 and seize computers - AP reported that Albanian police raided the Ashraf-3 camp near Manez to seize about 150 computer devices allegedly linked to prohibited political activity, and both officers and residents were injured. AFP, via VOA, said police cited violations of commitments the group made when it settled in Albania for humanitarian purposes. Police raid Iranian opposition camp in Albania, seize computers
- MEK reports a member's death; police deny responsibility - Al Jazeera reported that the MEK said a 65-year-old member, Ali Mostashari, died and more than 100 residents were hurt by pepper spray. Albanian police said the death had nothing to do with police action. MEK-affiliated accounts accused Albania of favouring the Iranian government. Why was this Iran dissident group raided in Europe?
- Albanian court lets probe into suspected war incitement and cybercrime proceed - RFE/RL reported that Albania's Special Court Against Corruption and Organized Crime allowed a probe of camp residents to proceed, including suspected incitement to war and cybercrime. Six MEK leaders were charged with disobeying police and damaging property during the search. Albanian Authorities Suspect Iranian Dissidents Residing In Camp Of Several Crimes
- US says it does not see the MEK as a viable democratic opposition - The National and Al Jazeera reported that the US State Department said Albania assured it the search was lawful, and that Washington does not see the MEK as a viable democratic opposition representative of Iranians. It cited serious concerns about the group, including alleged abuse of its own members. Albanian police raid exiled Iranian opposition camp