Kosovo Protests Serbia’s Arrest of Ethnic Albanian War Crimes Suspect
Recent tensions have escalated between Kosovo and Serbia following the arrest of Mitehat Llozhani, a Kosovo Albanian. The apprehension occurred on Thursday at the Batrovci border crossing with Croatia. Serbian officials claim that Llozhani is linked to war crimes during Kosovo’s conflict with Serbia in 1998-99.
Details of the Arrest
Serbian Interior Minister Ivica Dacic announced the arrest, stating that Llozhani was detained by the Serbian police and the Intelligence Security Agency (BIA). He is accused of participating in war crimes against civilians as a member of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA), specifically in the Operational Zone Dukagjin.
Allegations Against Llozhani
- Llozhani allegedly received selective military training from the KLA.
- He is accused of engaging in terrorist attacks against Serbian police and military forces.
- His actions reportedly included participation in kidnappings and the killing of police officers.
Kosovo’s Response
Kosovo’s Foreign Ministry condemned the arrest, demanding clarification from Serbia’s Liaison Office in Pristina. They have notified the European Delegation in Serbia and have sought support from the Quint countries: Germany, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
International Community’s Role
The Kosovo Foreign Ministry urged the international community to exert pressure on Serbia. They emphasized the need to protect the rights and security of Kosovo citizens, who they claim face continued violations of human rights.
Context and Background
The arrest of individuals connected to the KLA has historically strained Kosovo-Serbia relations. In December 2024, a Belgrade court sentenced Nezir Mehmetaj, a Kosovo citizen, to six years in prison for war crimes. He had served over four years before being released in October last year. Another ex-KLA member, Hasan Dakaj, was released in January 2025 after nearly a year of detention under similar suspicions.
These incidents illustrate ongoing tensions and the sensitivity surrounding war crime allegations that continue to affect bilateral relations between Kosovo and Serbia.
