Alket Rizai, one of the most well-known Albanian prisoners in Greece, is famous for his dramatic prison escapes and controversial life story. “I sang about Alket Rizai because he is considered a hero here in Greece. He is brave and has done crazy things both inside and outside prison,” rapper Tus once said. It remains to be seen how successful the project will be in Greece, but it is certain that the song has already gained attention in Albania.

Who is Alket Rizai?

Alket Rizai was born on May 24, 1978, in Ballsh. At the age of 16, he moved to Greece in search of work. He became widely known as the Albanian who escaped twice from Greek prisons using a helicopter—an act that made headlines internationally.

He was the youngest of three brothers and was described as a well-behaved child. He had a strong passion for electronics, which he might have turned into a profession if his life had taken a different path. From the age of 10, he would dismantle and reassemble electronic devices.

Rizai spent his early childhood in the village of Kalenjë, where he lived with his relatives. At the age of six, he returned to his hometown to begin school, but he never completed high school, as he left for Greece.

In addition to Albanian, Rizai reportedly speaks five foreign languages. He carried out two helicopter escapes from Korydallos Prison. He later attempted a third escape by taking six prison officers hostage at Malandrinos Prison.

He is currently serving his sentence in prison.