The leader of Albania's main opposition Democratic Party (DP) Lulzim Basha was found guilty by Tirana district Court on Monday for defamation against the head of the Socialist party parliamentary group Taulant Balla.

According to the court decision, Basha has to pay a fine of 50,000 Albanian lek (around 455 U.S. dollars).

In 2018, during a parliament session, Basha accused Balla of being related to the 3.4 million euros found in two cars in Durres port imported from Germany, allegedly belonging to drug traffickers.

Speaking to reporters, Balla said that Basha is declared guilty and obliged to pay the fine.

Basha's lawyer said that he would appeal.