Palatova meets Svecla: EU expects alleged cases of police misconduct to be investigated

Acting Head of the EU Office in Kosovo Eva Palatova stressed during a meeting with caretaker Kosovo Minister of Internal Affairs Xhelal Svecla that the European Union expected alleged cases of misconduct by the Kosovo Police to be investigated and any demolitions of structures to be carried out in accordance with the law and prescribed procedures.

Palatova wrote on X that she had discussed with Svecla the need for Kosovo institutions to respect the rule of law and multiethnicity.

"The EU expects alleged cases of misconduct by the Kosovo Police to be investigated and any demolitions of structures to be carried out in accordance with the law and prescribed procedures," Palatova said.

She stressed that the EU supported Kosovo's European path, but that Kosovo had to do its part.

As a reminder, the Kosovo Police Inspectorate recommended that the Kosovo Police suspend two officers from the Regional Police Directorate in North Mitrovica on suspicion of the criminal offense of "mistreatment in the exercise of official duty or public authority," in connection with an incident in which Nenad Raskovic, a Serb from the village of Dren, sustained serious injuries.

Caretaker Kosovo Minister of Internal Affairs Xhelal Svecla said that, once the investigation had been completed, the public would be informed of its findings and any measures taken.

The European Union had previously also reacted to the demolition of structures at Gazivode Lake. Spokesperson for the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Anitta Hipper said that the European Union was calling on Kosovo institutions to halt any further demolitions in the Gazivode Lake area and, in cooperation with affected residents and local authorities, find lawful and sustainable solutions.