Arbnor Spahiu, a former member of the Kosovo Special Operations Unit, was detained by Serbian authorities on June 7 at the Horgosh border crossing and subsequently transferred to a detention center in Kanjiža.
Lawyer Arianit Koci announced the detention via a Facebook post, stating that even though Spahiu has not been part of the Kosovo Police for three years and lives in Germany, he was questioned regarding the “Banjska” case.
“This case is serious and not isolated. Just a few days ago, another former police officer – Aleksandar Vlajić – pleaded guilty to working for the Serbian secret service (BIA) and was convicted of espionage. This confirmed that the Serbian BIA operated within the territory of Kosovo and within its security structures,” Koci wrote on Facebook.
Koci suggested that Arbnor Spahiu’s detention appears to be a direct reaction to this revelation, calling it an attempt to intimidate, punish, and create insecurity—especially for those who once served in Kosovo’s security institutions.
“This is a clear signal for all citizens of Kosovo: passing through Serbia is not without risks. You know that a few days ago, a former MP was also detained. After several hours of questioning, he was released. I am committed to Arbnor’s defense with all legal means. But this is not enough,” he said.
Koci has called for an urgent reaction from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Liaison Office in Belgrade, and all responsible institutions, arguing that today’s silence encourages Serbia to continue with further detentions.
“And no citizen of Kosovo should face such injustice alone. I will not leave anyone alone – with all the possibilities and professional capacity I have. State culture, patriotism begins precisely there – with the protection of its people/citizens. All for one, one for all – should be our motto, without prejudice,” he concluded.
