Following the landmark sentencing of three terrorists involved in the Banjska attack, Kosovo’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Xhelal Sveçla, issued a forceful statement asserting that the judicial process is far from over. While welcoming the life sentences handed down today, Sveçla emphasized that true justice will only be served when all 45 identified members of the group—including the mastermind Milan Radoičić—face the same “maximum punishment.”
Sveçla’s remarks underscore the Kosovar government’s position that the September 24, 2023, ambush was not a rogue operation, but a state-sponsored attempt by Serbia to annex northern Kosovo.
A Standard of “Maximum Punishment”
Minister Sveçla argued that the gravity of the attack, which claimed the life of Police Sergeant Afrim Bunjaku, requires a unified judicial standard for every individual involved in the conspiracy.
- The 45 Suspects: Sveçla pointed out that while three are now behind bars, 42 others remain at large, primarily in Serbia. He insisted that the life sentences received by Spasojević and Tolić must serve as the benchmark for the entire “terrorist network.”
- Defending the Order: The Minister hailed the bravery of the Kosovo Police, stating that they did not just fight off terrorists but “stopped a dangerous scenario for partition” that was meticulously planned and equipped with state-level logistics.
“The decision for the terrorist attack in Banjska must reflect only one standard: maximum sentences for all involved… without exception,” Sveçla declared.
The Finger Pointed at Belgrade
A central theme of Sveçla’s reaction was the direct culpability of the Serbian state. He reiterated that the dismantling of criminal and paramilitary structures in the north is proof of Kosovo’s sovereign strength, but noted that the political “masterminds” remain protected.
- State Support: The Minister cited “facts and evidence” documenting Serbia’s direct political, financial, and logistical involvement in the aggression.
- The Radoičić Ultimatum: Sveçla made it clear that the “Banjska case” remains an open wound until Milan Radoičić, the former Vice President of the Serb List, is extradited or brought to justice.
A Step Toward Justice for a Fallen Hero
While acknowledging that no court ruling can bring back Hero Afrim Bunjaku, Sveçla described today’s sentences as a vital step for the family and the state.
- Legacy of Sacrifice: “This is a step toward justice for his sacrifice and for the pain that remains with his family, colleagues, and all our citizens,” the Minister said.
- A Deterrent Message: He concluded with a stern warning to any hostile actors: “Anyone who violates the Republic of Kosovo and its Police will face justice.”
Summary of the Minister’s Position
| Key Demand | Rationale |
| Sentencing of 42 Remaining Suspects | To dismantle the entire 45-person terrorist network. |
| Extradition of Milan Radoičić | He is the “head of the group” and primary organizer. |
| Serbian State Accountability | To address the logistical and financial support behind the attack. |
| Upholding Constitutional Order | To prevent future attempts at territorial partition. |
As Prishtina celebrates a legal victory, the diplomatic pressure now shifts back to the international community and Belgrade. For the Kosovo government, today’s life sentences are merely the beginning of a much larger pursuit of accountability that ends in the surrender of those currently sheltered across the border.
