The general prosecutor's office in Albania has launched investigations against six lawmakers and three mayors over different alleged criminal offenses, it was reported Thursday.

According to the prosecution, the nine high officials are being investigated as part of the decriminalization law.

The law, adopted by Albanian parliament last year, aims to bar persons with criminal records from holding public offices.

Although all suspects have denied having problems with the law, the prosecution office announced that it has sufficient evidence showing that they have hidden their criminal past.

After examining all arguments and facts, the Central Election Commission will decide whether to strip them off their mandate or not.

source: Xinhua