Kosovo authorities have arrested eight suspects and seized a stash of weapons, including explosives, after a major attack on the Ibër-Lepenci canal. The explosion on Friday evening caused extensive damage to the water supply, sparking accusations that Serbia was behind the “terrorist” attack.
The blast, which hit the canal in the village of Varragë, disrupted water supplies to large parts of northern Kosovo and the capital, Pristina. Kosovo’s Interior Minister Xhelal Sveçla called it the worst attack on the country’s infrastructure since the 1999 war, saying it was “coordinated by terrorist organizations” aimed at harming Kosovo and its people.
During a Saturday operation, authorities raided 10 locations, seizing military-grade weapons, explosives, and equipment tied to the attack. Much of the weaponry was described as “Serbian-made.” The attack involved up to 20 kilograms of explosives, likely sourced from military stockpiles, according to police.
The suspects are also connected to recent violence in northern Kosovo, including grenade attacks on police stations. Most of the arrested individuals are linked to the “Civil Defense,” a banned paramilitary group.
Prime Minister Albin Kurti blamed Serbia for the attack, calling it an act of terrorism. Serbia has denied the allegations. The international community has condemned the attack, urging swift justice for those responsible.
