Proceedings in the terrorism trial over the 2024 attack on the Ibar-Lepenac canal were adjourned on Monday after a forensic DNA expert presented new evidence linking one of the defendants to material recovered at the crime scene.
Fatmir Ademi, a forensic biologist at the Kosovo Forensic Agency, testified before the Basic Court in Prishtina that DNA matching defendant Jovan Vićentijević was identified on an ignition fuse used in the attack.
According to Ademi, forensic experts analyzed 24 DNA genetic loci from the evidence and found 20 markers matching Vićentijević’s DNA profile.
“Regarding the individuals coded as S1 and S2, corresponding to Jovan Vićentijević, and S3 and S4, corresponding to Dragiša Vićentijević, the matches are documented in our DNA report. Most importantly, in conclusion number five, we examined three mixed DNA profiles collected from the crime scene. Evidence item number four, described as a 60-meter ignition cable fuse, revealed traces belonging to S1, Jovan Vićentijević. Of the 24 genetic loci analyzed, 20 matched S1. We use the most advanced validated scientific methods and standardized procedures. During the DNA quantification process, we used the One Studio Test instrument,” Ademi testified.
He added that an independent forensic examination conducted by a laboratory in Rome fully confirmed the findings of the Kosovo experts.
“There were no contradictions in the report prepared by our Italian colleagues. Their findings confirmed ours and further strengthened the signal we had identified. Using their software and scientific methods, they established a link between S1 and one of the three contributors in the mixed DNA sample,” he said.
According to the forensic analysis, the dominant DNA profile recovered from the mixed sample belonged to the accused.
“We identified the primary contributor in the mixture. The strongest DNA traces belonged to S1, while smaller traces belonged to two other unidentified individuals,” Ademi stated.
The presiding judge, Vesel Ismajli, adjourned the hearing after defense lawyers informed the court that they were not prepared to question the witness.
“The defense has stated that it is not prepared for questioning. Today’s hearing is therefore adjourned and will continue tomorrow at 1:30 p.m.,” Judge Ismajli announced.
At a previous hearing on July 9, the defendants pleaded not guilty and declined to read the indictment.
According to the Special Prosecution’s indictment, on November 29, 2024, in the village of Varagë, Zubin Potok municipality, Jovan Vićentijević and Dragiša Vićentijević, together with several unidentified individuals, allegedly placed approximately 20 kilograms of TNT explosives inside the Ibar-Lepenac canal following a prior agreement.
Prosecutors allege the brothers detonated the explosives using a bag tied with a rope to a concrete pillar, causing severe damage to the canal’s concrete structure, disrupting drinking water supplies, endangering electricity production, and inflicting €376,774.70 in damages on the Ibar-Lepenac public utility.
The defendants are charged with endangering the constitutional order through the destruction of public infrastructure in connection with the commission of a terrorist act.
