The case originated from the refoulement of two Albanian nationals from Milan Malpensa Airport, Italy. The applicants had travelled to Italy for medical purposes. Despite a 90-day visa exemption for Albanian citizens and presenting the necessary documentation to the authorities, the two women were detainedd for 27 hours. They were also subjected to a search and their personal belongings – mobile phones, bags, wallets and cash with which they traveled – were taken from them without the agents drawing up a search or seizure report, nor even issuing them a receipt relating to the detained goods. The applicants were denied access to legal counsel.