The Kosovo Police have launched an investigation into allegations of misuse of public funds at the “Botanika” kindergarten in Prishtina. The investigation follows earlier reports by KOHA regarding suspicions of fraudulent use of municipal subsidies in the names of children who did not attend the institution.
According to the police announcement, evidence has been gathered indicating that fictitious lists were created to claim subsidies for children who were not enrolled at the kindergarten, causing significant financial damage.
The police statement further revealed that the investigation also covers irregular withdrawals of funds and the purchase of electronic equipment without justification for institutional needs. Authorities are continuing their efforts to determine responsibilities and the exact financial damages, which could total over 100,000 euros.
KOHA’s sources have confirmed that both Kadrije Asllani, the director of “Botanika”, and Qendresa Makolli, the administrator of the kindergarten, were interviewed during the investigation. Asllani has been detained for 48 hours.
“Two suspects were interviewed, and one has been placed in custody for further legal proceedings,” the police stated.
This latest development follows a report last month by KOHA, which revealed a theft scheme allegedly operating at the “Botanika” kindergarten, located in the Mati 2 neighborhood of Prishtina. Parents had accused the institution’s officials of misappropriating funds.
Asllani, when approached earlier, had refused to comment on the allegations, citing that the case was under investigation. She had, however, shifted the blame to Makolli, the administrator. Makolli, in turn, dismissed the accusations as defamation.
According to Makolli, the lists were prepared by Asllani and later submitted to the Municipal Directorate of Education (DKA) under her orders.
The municipality of Prishtina provides financial assistance to vulnerable families for children enrolled in private pre-school institutions, covering part of the costs. Botanika, a community-based kindergarten, had benefited from this program.
A document obtained by KOHA showed a list submitted to the municipality with the names of 93 children to receive subsidies, despite there being around 100 children officially registered at the kindergarten. Several parents, who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed this discrepancy.
