Armed gunmen launched a brazen attack on the small village of Banjska in northern Kosovo. The motive behind this heinous act remains unclear, but the consequences have been devastating. One police officer lost his life, and at least three suspects were shot dead in the ensuing chaos.
The situation unfolded early Sunday morning when a band of 30 professional gunmen stormed the peaceful village, catching the unsuspecting residents off guard. Their audacity knew no bounds as they barricaded themselves inside the town monastery, leaving authorities scrambling to respond.
Kosovo Police, in a statement released late Sunday, described the security situation as tense but indicated a decrease in attacks on the police. They revealed that three gunmen had been killed, while two others were apprehended. Additionally, four suspects were arrested for illegal possession of radio communications, with suspicions of ties to a terrorist group.
The slain police officer was identified as Afrim Bujaku, a true hero who laid down his life to protect the territorial integrity and rule of law of our country, according to Prime Minister Albin Kurti. Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time.
The shooters operated with military precision, using the natural environment to their advantage, making it hard for responding units to neutralize the threat. As the authorities surrounded the historic Serbia Orthodox Church, which had been taken hostage by the militants, some faithful sought refuge inside, hoping for safety amidst the chaos.
Prime Minister Kurti wasted no time in blaming “Serbia-sponsored criminals” for this senseless violence. In a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, he called for the criminals to surrender. His determination to bring these culprits to justice is unwavering.
Kosovo Police units have been tirelessly searching through residential buildings and vehicles used by the attackers, leading to the confiscation of hundreds of weapons and ammunition. The magnitude of the arsenal is shocking, including heavy military equipment like machine guns, grenades, and more. The police force continues to work in close coordination with KFOR & EULEX as the operation remains ongoing.
The motivation behind this attack remains shrouded in mystery. Nevertheless, the region has experienced an upsurge in violence following a disputed election in May and the breakdown of political talks with European Union leaders in recent months.
To contain the gunmen within the village, security forces established a perimeter, leaving no room for escape. The gunmen, masked and armed to the teeth with heavy weapons, grenades, and other tactical equipment, including rocket launchers and armored vehicles, presented a formidable challenge to the authorities.
In response to this alarming situation, NATO peacekeeping forces stationed in the region have assured local authorities of their readiness to intervene if necessary. The support of the international community is crucial in restoring peace and stability to the region.
The European Union’s mission in Kosovo, known as EULEX, condemned the attack and pledged full engagement in maintaining stability and security for all communities. Close coordination with NATO/KFOR is a top priority as efforts are made to bring calm to the area.
Kosovo and Serbia have been striving to normalize relations in recent months, following the turbulent breakup of Yugoslavia and other Balkan nations in the late 1990s. This ongoing process has brought to light regional territorial disputes, exacerbating tensions.
High Representative of the EU, Josep Borrell, has spoken with Prime Minister Kurti and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, voicing his demand for those responsible to face justice. Borrell emphasizes that innocent lives are at risk and that these attacks must cease immediately.
As a somber candlelight vigil was held in honor of Officer Bunjaku, the Kosovo community stands united in grief and defiance. The memory of his sacrifice will serve as a reminder of the bravery displayed by law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to protect the innocent.
This incident serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the precarious nature of peace in the region. It is our collective responsibility to work towards lasting stability and ensure that such violence becomes a relic of the past.