Inside London’s Albanian ‘Mafia’ who bring fear to community dubbed ‘Little Tirana’
Inside London’s Albanian ‘Mafia’ who bring fear to community dubbed ‘Little Tirana’
Nestled in a tranquil, green suburb north of London, a hidden network of Albanian-led criminal operations thrives beneath the surface. This covert group has established a stronghold in the vicinity of Southgate Station on the Piccadilly line, where their activities range from protection rackets to drug trafficking and people smuggling.
According to sources, the neighborhood has become a fortress for these organized criminals, who use the threat of extreme violence to assert dominance. Many local businesses, including restaurants, now face demands for protection money, and some have been forced to relinquish their premises to the Albanian ‘Mafia.’
“The Albanian gangs wield significant influence over the community, instilling a pervasive fear of retaliation. They have seized control of several businesses and continue to intimidate others,” a source revealed to Metro.
Locals have given the area the moniker ‘Little Tirana,’ a nod to the Albanian capital, reflecting the extent of the gang’s grip. Fear of reprisals has silenced many in the community, with some unwilling to speak out due to the risk of violence.
Flamur Beqiri, 39, whose sister Misse appears on The Real Housewives of Cheshire, was fatally shot by a rival gang member in a Christmas Eve ambush in 2019. His killer, Anis Hemissi, was later convicted of murder and firearm possession. The evidence indicated Beqiri was a drug lord living comfortably in the capital.
Meanwhile, the Southgate-based gang operates discreetly, blending into the everyday life of the area. Their activities unfold in cafes and on the streets, with few locals daring to challenge their authority. A shopkeeper described the situation as “scared to death” to provoke the Albanian mob, noting the atmosphere had shifted dramatically since their arrival.
“I’ve been here for over two decades without issues until the last few years. When the Albanian criminals moved in, everything changed. They want to claim all the businesses,” the shopkeeper added. He highlighted the struggles faced by Greek Cypriot enterprises, with some forced out by threats or sabotage.
Police efforts have primarily targeted Ashfield Parade, identified as the gang’s core territory. In 2023, Albanian people smuggler Arlin Leka was jailed for illegally transporting men from Albania to the UK. Raids at other locations have also uncovered ongoing concerns about gang activities in the area.
Metrounderstands that while the Turkish ‘Mafia’ dominates Tottenham and Wood Green, the Albanian mob holds sway in Southgate and Cockfosters. The two groups rarely conflict, with Turks wary of the Albanians’ ruthless tactics.
During a trial last year, i
