Kushner’s Albania resort project drew villagers’ outrage after they claimed Artur Shehu—a suspected gangster—stole their land. Residents of Zvernec wrote Kushner a letter warning him not to proceed, stating the property belonged to them. Despite this, Kushner’s group paid Shehu $120 million for the land in 2023. Two months later, Albanian prosecutors arrested Shehu on drug-smuggling charges, which he denies. The case centers on a dispute over Albania land and allegations of drug-related activities.

Shehu, who fled to Miami after a 2000s gunfight at his bar, now faces legal battles in Albania. Villagers allege Shehu stole their land in the 2000s, leading to decades of court fights. Kushner’s team ignored their pleas, advancing the resort plan. The site, a peninsula with a lagoon, holds cultural significance for locals.

The drug-smuggling case involves international operations, with Shehu allegedly using charcoal and fruit paste shipments to transport cocaine. Prosecutors claim he played a lead role. Shehu’s denial of charges contrasts with the villagers’ claims of land theft. The case highlights tensions between developers, local communities, and criminal allegations in Albania.

The dispute underscores challenges in Kushner’s development efforts. Villagers’ letter, ignored by Kushner’s group, symbolizes resistance to external interests. Shehu’s arrest may resolve the land issue, but legal and reputational risks loom for Kushner and his associates.