Due condemns the murder of Arlinda Zekaj: Every call for help must be taken seriously

UNMIK chief Peter Due has strongly condemned the murder of Arlinda Zekaj, who was killed last night in Vitomirica, near Pec, stressing that the case highlights the devastating consequences of gender-based violence and the urgent need to take every call for help seriously.

Due extended his sincere condolences to Arlinda Zekaj's family, noting that this was the second murder of a woman in Kosovo in just over two weeks and the eighth since the beginning of this year.

"This brutal murder, the second killing of a woman in Kosovo in just over two weeks and the eighth this year, highlights the devastating consequences of gender-based violence and the urgent need to take every call for help seriously. Violence against women must never be tolerated," Due said.

The head of UNMIK called for a thorough investigation and accountability in accordance with the rule of law.

He stressed that institutions and society share a responsibility to prevent gender-based violence, protect women and girls, and ensure timely access to effective protection and support services.

Due also highlighted the importance of combating harmful gender stereotypes, promoting equality and mutual respect, and strengthening prevention efforts through targeted awareness-raising initiatives and education.

Arlinda Zekaj, 49, was killed on Sunday evening. Her brother-in-law, who is suspected of committing the murder, remains at large and is being sought by police, the Kosovo Police said. 

Meanwhile, the prosecution announced that the victim had raised concerns about institutional failures in her case three days before her murder.