Demonstrators hurled stones , firecrackers and other objects at riot police, who responded with tear gas and water cannon . Fires broke out in the city centre, engulfing trees and a roadside structure as firefighters worked to contain the flames.
Footage shows protesters racing through smoke-filled streets, tearing down police barriers and throwing tear-gas canisters back at officers. Shops and banks were damaged, some looted , while police reported vandalism targeting ATMs, cameras, vehicles and fencing. Burnt-out vehicles, smashed windows and wrecked offices were left behind across the Albanian capital , where residents and workers began clearing debris as demonstrations continued.
What began three days ago as student protests over the cost and quality of higher education has become a broader challenge to Prime Minister Edi Rama's government . Students demanding better university conditions, financial support and job prospects have joined the Flamingo movement , which opposes a luxury resort project linked to Jared Kushner and is calling for Mr Rama's resignation over corruption allegations .