The German Embassy in Kosovo has called on Serbian authorities to fully cooperate with Kosovo in the investigation of the terrorist attack on the “Ibër-Lepenc” water canal in Lower Varage, Zubin Potok.
In a response to KOHA, the embassy emphasized that Serbia must fulfill its commitments to full cooperation. The German authorities stressed the importance of Serbia assisting Kosovo in clarifying the incident.
The Kosovo Special Prosecution stated that it has submitted requests for cooperation since the beginning of the year and has repeated the request. However, Serbia has not responded. The German Embassy expressed regret over this lack of engagement.
“The German Embassy notes with regret that Serbia has yet to respond to Kosovo’s request for mutual legal assistance regarding the terrorist attack on the Ibër-Lepenc water canal. We underline the importance of Serbia fulfilling its obligations and strongly encourage full and prompt cooperation. This relates to honoring agreements made during the Kosovo-Serbia dialogue and demonstrating a commitment to their implementation,” the embassy said in its response.
The embassy also acknowledged the European Union Office’s ongoing efforts to facilitate cooperation:
“We greatly appreciate the vital role our colleagues at the EU Office in Kosovo continue to play in facilitating mutual assistance and ensuring procedures move forward effectively,” it added.
KOHA also reached out to the embassies of the United States, France, Italy, and the EU Office in Kosovo on June 4 for comment, but none have responded.
Meanwhile, the British Embassy in Prishtina said the matter is being led by the EU, and queries should be directed to them.
On November 29, 2024, the Ibër-Lepenc canal was attacked in Lower Varage, Zubin Potok, using approximately 20 kilograms of explosives, according to Kosovo institutions.
The attack on this critical infrastructure was widely condemned. Kosovo and the EU labeled it a terrorist act, the U.S. called it horrific, and the UK deemed it deliberate.
Kosovo’s Special Prosecution has arrested two Serbian brothers from Zubin Potok, suspected of the terrorist attack, who are currently in pretrial detention. Following their arrest, Serbia pledged to cooperate in the investigation, while denying involvement in the terrorist attack.
