Nancy VanHorn, Chargé d'Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Albania, addressed participants at an OSCE conference focused on combating criminal organizations and drug trafficking. The event brought together law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and representatives from international organizations.
VanHorn highlighted the importance of fighting organized crime and drug trafficking for both the United States and Albania, noting that these issues undermine global security and threaten stability worldwide. She thanked law enforcement professionals for their dedication: "So I wanted to sincerely thank you on behalf of the American people for risking your lives to bring criminals to justice and for taking time away from this important work to share best practices here today."
She described Balkan criminal groups as adaptable entities that use encrypted communications, illicit finance, and corrupt connections. According to VanHorn, these groups are involved in violent activities that erode public trust and operate beyond regional borders: "Balkan criminal groups are in our backyard in America right now, as they are increasingly involved in South American cocaine trafficking. As investigations have shown, Albanian criminals are partnering with South American cartels – cartels that President Trump has designated as terrorist organizations; they are groups that flood the United States and Europe with illicit drugs."
VanHorn referenced directives from President Trump regarding organized crime: "President Trump also instructed our government to work towards the total elimination of organized crime groups and cartels, and that is our focus. To do this, we are deepening our collaboration with governments that match our level of focus and commitment. And our work is based on concrete shared interests, not platitudes or ideologies, as Secretary Rubio has noted."
She emphasized joint efforts between U.S. agencies and Albanian counterparts such as SPAK (Special Anti-Corruption Structure), highlighting recent operations resulting in charges against suspects and large drug seizures: "Through this partnership SPAK targets criminals here and in South America. A July investigation led to charges against 16 suspects and seizures of six tons of drugs worth 411 million Euros. Last month, SPAK took down groups that trafficked over 32 tons of cocaine from South America into Europe."
VanHorn also addressed the importance of tackling money laundering: "SPAK’s work also addresses another aspect of organized crime and corruption: illicit finance and money laundering. Huge sums of illicit proceeds laundered throughout this region undermine real economic growth."
The cooperation aims not only to strengthen Albania's security but also to address challenges faced by the United States related to border security and illegal immigration.
Regarding leadership changes within SPAK, VanHorn stressed the need for a transparent selection process: "And the process of selecting Mr. Dumani’s replacement must be impartial, it must be transparent, and it must be free from outside influence." She added that international partners would closely monitor these developments.
VanHorn concluded by expressing confidence in continued collaboration: "Thank you again for your courage, for your commitment to your countries and citizens. I trust that this conference will strengthen your skills and provide new tools in your fight against organized crime."