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, tree-lined neighborhood of North London, a hidden criminal network led by Albanians has been quietly gaining momentum. This group operates within a radius of Southgate’s London Underground station, engaging in protection schemes, human smuggling operations, and drug distribution, according to insiders.

Residents have named the area near the station ‘Little Tirana,’ drawing a parallel with the capital of Albania, due to the pervasive influence of the group. The gangsters leverage the threat of severe violence to exert control over local businesses and residents, creating an environment where intimidation is a common tool.

The Albanian gangs have a grip on the community and there is a lot of fear about being taken out [killed]. They have taken over some of the businesses and have threatened others. We know who they are and where they operate out of. It has been reported to the police that they need to get a grip of this. It’s an international crime network which is colonising the area around Southgate station and is spreading up the high street.

A local shopkeeper expressed deep fear, stating that the arrival of Albanian criminals transformed the area’s atmosphere. He claimed that the gangsters have been pressuring businesses, sometimes paying individuals to instigate damage or altercations, creating an environment where shops are compelled to close. Then the Albanians move in. It’s been particularly bad for Greek Cypriot businesses.

Police have focused their efforts on Ashfield Parade, a local hub for the gang’s operations. In 2023, Albanian people smuggler Arlin Leka was imprisoned after convictions for transporting men from Albania to the UK illegally. Raids on other addresses along the road have also revealed ongoing concerns about gang activities in the area.

While the Turkish ‘Mafia’ dominates areas like Tottenham and Wood Green, the Albanian mob holds sway in Southgate and Cockfosters. These groups typically avoid direct conflict, as the Turks are wary of the Albanians’ ruthless tactics. The community in Southgate, however, remains under significant pressure, with locals describing it as a ‘criminal fortress’ where fear stifles dissent.