The Basic Court in Pristina – Special Department has ordered one month of pre-trial detention for Fehim Sali, who is suspected of committing the criminal offence of espionage, under Article 124, paragraph 3 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kosovo.
The decision was issued on August 14, 2026, by preliminary proceedings judge Kushtrim Shyti, following a request by the Special Prosecution of the Republic of Kosovo. The detention period runs from August 13 to September 13, 2026.
According to the court’s ruling, there is well-grounded suspicion that Sali entered into the service of a foreign intelligence organization, collected information for it, or otherwise assisted its activities.
The investigation was initiated following information received by the Kosovo Intelligence Agency (KIA) on June 20, 2025, concerning Sali’s alleged activities and suspected links to Serbia’s intelligence service, the BIA.
The court states that Sali allegedly maintained regular contact with Zhelimir Matović, also known as “Zheljko,” whom the KIA has identified as a BIA officer since 2002.
According to evidence presented by the prosecution, Sali allegedly provided Matović with information concerning Kosovo’s political situation, attempted to identify and photograph KIA officials, supplied information about specific individuals, and proposed potential targets for contact or recruitment by the BIA.
The ruling further states that Sali allegedly acted as an intermediary concerning matters and documentation involving Serbian institutions and maintained contacts with individuals holding political and social influence in Kosovo and Serbia.
The court stressed that contact with a foreign intelligence official, by itself, would not establish sufficient grounds for suspicion of espionage. However, it said the alleged contacts must be assessed alongside the communications, suspected activities, special investigative measures and other evidence collected during the investigation.
During searches of Sali’s vehicle and residence, authorities seized four mobile phones, relevant documents and approximately €40,000 in cash. The electronic devices are expected to undergo forensic examination.
The court also identified a risk of flight, noting that Sali was stopped at approximately 4:00 a.m. on August 13 at the Merdare border crossing while attempting to leave Kosovo. The court also took into consideration his dual Kosovo and Serbian citizenship and family ties in Serbia.
Additional grounds cited by the court include the potential risk of influencing witnesses or interfering with evidence, as well as the possibility of reoffending.
Sali’s defense opposed the detention request, arguing that he has permanent residence, family and employment in Kosovo, and that his travel to Serbia was motivated by personal and family reasons. Sali has denied the allegations against him.
The court nevertheless concluded that alternative measures, including house arrest, bail or mandatory reporting to the police, would not be sufficient to ensure his presence during the proceedings or protect the integrity of the investigation.
Note: The allegations remain subject to judicial proceedings, and Sali is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a final court judgment.
