PRISTINA – Kosovo police announced today that they will step up security measures on the eve of 16 September and the declaration of verdict for former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army, in order to preserve public order and peace and normal traffic flow, stating that it is “regular activities” in the case of larger gatherings, it was reported by FoNet agency.
The statement explains that the development of operational plans is a regular procedure when meetings, public activities or a larger presence of citizens are announced.
Pristina media outlets reported that the police were preparing an “operational plan”, which includes an interruption of annual vacations, 12-hour shifts, police in equipment for breaking up demonstrations, the use of tear gas, increased security of international representative offices and patrols in mixed areas.
The police pointed out that security measures are taken based on the assessment of the situation, especially in cases where various activities, events or a larger presence of citizens is expected. According to the police, such measures have been taken before, including during the “March for Freedom” 12 September.
Kosovo police added that, when assessing the situation, the possibility of individuals or certain elements, including persons from abroad, trying to use large gatherings for provocations, incidents or destabilizing activities is also taken into account.
“Kosovo police calls on citizens and media to rely solely on official information and to avoid the dissemination of unconfirmed claims, especially when they may affect the perception of security and cause unnecessary public concern”, the statement noted.
The first-instance verdict for former Kosovo President Hashim Thaçi and three other KLA leaders is scheduled to be announced by the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in the Hague on 16 September. Thaçi is being tried alongside three other high-ranking KLA leaders – Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi, and Jakup Krasniqi.
The group faces multiple counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity, including murder, torture, persecution, and illegal detentions across Kosovo and parts of Albania between 1998 and 1999.
Tens of thousands of people gathered for a “March for Freedom” in Pristina on 12 September, 2026, to support former leaders of KLA on trial.
