Pristina, July 22, 2025 —
Kosovo is grappling with an escalating emergency as wildfires rage across the country, with more than 320 fire incidents reported over the past week alone. The alarming rise in blazes has resulted in two fatalities—a firefighter from Gjakova and a civilian from the Municipality of Klina—alongside several injuries.
The grim statistics were shared during a joint press conference held by the Emergency Management Agency and the Kosovo Police, where officials outlined the growing risks and the urgent need for public awareness and prevention.
National Emergency: Hundreds of Fires
Genc Metaj, Executive Director of the Emergency Management Agency, said the fires have spread throughout the country, including forest, field, and structural fires. He warned that the current scale of the disaster requires immediate action.
“The country is facing a difficult situation, with fires reported nationwide. Over the past week alone, more than 320 fire cases have been registered—ranging from wildfires and grass fires to building fires. For all these cases, emergency units have intervened successfully,” Metaj said.
He confirmed that seven fires remain active and that firefighting teams are working intensively to contain them. “This high number and the potential consequences are alarming. Tragically, we have lost a professional firefighter from the Gjakova unit, as well as a citizen from Klina. Two additional firefighters have been injured. A major challenge remains the public’s awareness and cooperation,” he added.
Police Investigating Suspected Arson
Kosovo Police General Director Gazmend Hoxha spoke about the force’s role in combating arson and fire-related crimes. He said the police are actively investigating and working to bring those responsible to justice.
“The police are also engaged in efforts to reduce the number of fires and mitigate risks. We’ve initiated a series of measures to prevent the spread of fires and investigate criminal offenses,” Hoxha stated.
Since the beginning of the fire crisis, the Kosovo Police have reported:
183 total fires
54 classified as arson
9 individuals arrested
65 criminal cases initiated
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and avoid any behavior that could spark new fires, particularly during this period of extreme heat and drought.
Kosovo’s emergency services remain on high alert, and officials are calling for stronger public cooperation and preventive measures to avoid further tragedies.
