The result is a chaotic information vacuum which is filled by rumors, intrigues, and fear, and which gives rise to impulsiveness and misjudgment. The rebellion in the southern Albanian cities is, at this time, localized and obviously disorganized. There is no evidence available to justify a conclusion that any concrete relations exist or ever existed between the rebellious elements and any opposition parties. Both the ruling party and the opposition parties hold one another responsible for the violence. The hospital in Vlora lacks oxygen and other critical supplies.
Opposition parties claim the government has in effect put the city under a state of siege.
The IHF has received unconfirmed reports of summary executions by the rebellious elements in Vlora following illegitimate trials, as well as revenge killings taking place in the context of diffusing violence. Numerous people have been hit by stray bullets from indiscriminate gunfire. But none of the factors commonly cited would justify the violence reported, which serves as an excuse for the removal of civil liberties necessary to the democratic development of the country, and is ruthlessly exploited for political purposes.