Damage sustained by the Institute of Forensic Medicine (IML) following the 2023 fire resulted in significant damage to the main laboratories, leaving approximately 300 toxicology result cases incomplete. Legal experts have indicated that such delays negatively affect judicial proceedings. While renovations are nearing completion, with facilities expected to operate next week, the backlog of cases remains a primary concern.
According to Agron Thaqi, Acting Director of the IML, while around 1,500 autopsies were completed between July 2023 and July 2026, an estimated 300 cases are still awaiting toxicology results once the laboratory equipment is fully serviced and calibrated. Thaqi also noted that ten cases were sent abroad for examination, a process where the IML assists with organization and communication through existing agreements with regional and European institutions. However, the delay in results raises broader concerns.
Gëzim Shala, a Researcher at the IKL, stated that the inability of the IML to operate at full capacity since the fire hinders the judiciary. He suggested that the lack of full equipment and technical capability could impede the government’s ability to support the judicial system. Furthermore, lawyer Ardian Bajraktari warned that these delays carry financial implications, as forensic expertise represents a considerable financial burden on the state.
Despite the challenges, the IML reports that the main autopsy room, laboratories, and archive will resume operations next week, following the installation of a modernized fire-fighting system and the completion of renovations.
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