The security situation in northern Kosovo remains calm following changes to the deployment of NATO’s KFOR mission and the increased presence of the Kosovo Police in the region, Veton Elshani, deputy director of the Kosovo Police for the North Mitrovica region, told KosovaLive.
Elshani said Kosovo Police officers are present throughout northern Kosovo to ensure public safety, maintain order and respond to any security incidents.
“There is no concern. There is nothing unusual. We have been there before. The police are carrying out their duties because we are there for the safety of citizens, public order and peace,” Elshani said.
He noted that Kosovo Police personnel have remained in the northern part of the country for longer periods, describing the situation as sensitive because political decisions could potentially require intervention by security institutions.
“What is important to say is that the Kosovo Police has access to every part of the north. If there is a need to intervene, then we will intervene,” Elshani said.
Asked whether there had been any reaction from members of the Serb community following the increased Kosovo Police presence and the withdrawal of some international forces, Elshani said no incidents had been reported.
“The situation is calm and continues to be calm. There is no particular problem to highlight,” he said.
The developments come as KFOR continues to adjust its deployment in Kosovo and gradually transfers certain security responsibilities to local institutions, while maintaining its mandate to respond to significant security threats.
The changes are particularly sensitive in northern Kosovo, where security arrangements have long been closely linked to tensions between Kosovo institutions and the local Serb community.
