October 30, 2024 – The Police Inspectorate of Kosovo has recommended the suspension of two police officers following allegations of mistreatment against a Serbian citizen in North Mitrovica, an incident that has ignited widespread outrage.
The recommendation comes after the political entity “Serbian Democracy” released a video on social media last week, showing the arrest of a Serbian citizen who claims he was mistreated by police during the encounter. The footage quickly attracted significant attention, prompting calls for accountability.
In its statement, the Police Inspectorate confirmed that the suspension of a sergeant and another officer was advised to ensure the integrity of the investigation. “There is suspicion that they were involved in the mistreatment of the citizen in this case,” the statement read.
The Kosovo Police initially responded by asserting that the individual, identified only as MS, was detained for attempting to vandalise property in a local store. Authorities claimed he resisted police orders and insulted the officers in Serbian during the incident.
Sërxhan Sentiç, the Vice Ombudsman of Kosovo, condemned the alleged actions, calling for an end to such practices and urging accountability for those involved.
In a significant move, several Serbian civil society organisations have suspended their cooperation with the European Union Rule of Law mission, EULEX, demanding action over what they describe as the “illegal arrest and beating” of Miloš Subotic, the detained citizen. Concerns have also been raised by political parties and civil society in northern Kosovo regarding what they label as the excessive use of force by police against Serbian citizens.
In response to the growing tension, Kosovo’s authorities are urging citizens to report any violations to the relevant institutions.
