Kosovo’s Prime Minister Albin Kurti has called on Serbia to extradite suspects allegedly involved in the killing of Kosovar police officer Afrim Bunjaku, who died during a shooting incident in the village of Banjska last year. The appeal comes as Kosovo prosecutors file charges against 45 individuals, citing offenses such as terror activities, violation of constitutional order, funding terrorism, and money laundering.
One Year After the Ambush
During a commemorative visit to Banjska—marking one year since Bunjaku’s death—Kurti accused Serbia of orchestrating the attack, saying:
“Bullies who want war in Kosovo, in the Balkans, will have no place in Kosovo. I don’t know about Serbia, but they will not walk freely in Kosovo.”
Kosovan authorities allege that the Serb gunmen had prepared an ambush and later sought refuge in a Serbian Orthodox monastery, leading to a tense, 12-hour standoff with law enforcement. One officer was killed and another injured.
Charges and Accountability
Kosovo’s prosecutors have 45 people under indictment; only three have been arrested so far, while the rest remain at large.
- Maximum Sentence: If found guilty, the accused could face life imprisonment.
- Kurti’s Stance: The prime minister insists Serbia bears responsibility for the incursion, claiming the perpetrators intended to annex part of Kosovo and planned a “wider and longer conflict.”
Serbia denies these accusations, maintaining that the gunmen acted independently.
International Response
The EU and United States have denounced the attack and urged Belgrade to hand over any suspects wanted by Kosovan authorities. EU spokesman Peter Stano underscored the need for accountability and said the incident highlights why normalizing relations between Kosovo and Serbia remains crucial.
Honoring the Fallen Officer
Prime Minister Kurti wrapped up his visit by unveiling a street sign in Banjska named after the slain officer, Afrim Bunjaku, cementing his legacy in the village where he lost his life.
