Popular protest in Pristina, Police issue notice on engagement to maintain security

In connection with the continuation of the protest announced for today in Skanderbeg Square, near the state institutions in Pristina, over the verdict of the Specialist Chambers in The Hague against the former KLA leaders and the amendments to the Law on the Specialist Chambers, Kosovo Police have taken the necessary policing measures to provide security, preserve public order and peace, and ensure the smooth running of the protest before, during and until its conclusion, Telegrafi reports.

The notice states that Kosovo Police, in accordance with the Law on Public Gatherings, continuously recognises citizens’ right to free expression through peaceful gatherings and protests, and ex officio is committed to ensuring that the protest passes off peacefully and that participants express their purpose democratically and within the legal framework.

“Depending on police operational needs and developments on the ground, there may be restrictions or temporary interruptions of traffic on the roads around the location where the protest is taking place, and police units have therefore also been assigned to redirect traffic to alternative roads if necessary,” the notice says.

It also states: “Referring to the situation and the developments at last night’s protest, where some protesters repeatedly threw pyrotechnic devices, fireworks and hard objects at state buildings and police officers, Kosovo Police, in order to bring the situation under control, enable freedom of movement and prevent further escalation, were forced to act against the persons who displayed violence, using lawful police means — spray, tear gas and the water cannon to disperse the crowd.”

It is further stated that, based on official reports, three people were arrested for failing to respect repeated police calls for calm and for violating the law; two of them were remanded in custody by decision of the prosecutor, while one was released under regular procedure.

“As a result of the developments and the attacks with various objects, 20 police officers suffered injuries of various kinds and received medical treatment. Medical assistance was also sought by 12 citizens/protesters and one journalist, who also received medical treatment.

“Kosovo Police, as a democratic and accountable institution, after every operational plan carries out ex officio post-operation assessments of police actions on the ground and, depending on the findings on actions and possible suspicions of exceeding police authorisations, has notified the PIK as the competent authority. Kosovo Police continue to thank citizens for their cooperation and at the same time call on all participants in the protest to protest peacefully and democratically, and to respect the laws and the instructions of police officers in the interest of overall security. Other emergency institutions, such as medical teams, firefighters and others, have also contributed to managing and coordinating the situation.”

Kosovo Police, with their officers, will be present on the ground to guarantee constitutional order, public safety, the safety of citizens, freedom of movement and the smooth running of the protest, which remain the priorities of Kosovo Police.