The Prishtina Prosecutor’s Office held its annual closing conference for 2024 on December 27, outlining its achievements, objectives, and challenges in handling criminal cases throughout the year. The event, held at the Basic Prosecution Office of Prishtina, featured speeches from Chief Prosecutor Zejnullah Gashi and Deputy Chief Prosecutor Elza Bajrami.
In his address, Gashi highlighted significant progress in the office’s handling of cases, noting that the Prishtina Prosecutor’s Office had managed the highest number of cases in its history. He emphasized that one of the key goals achieved in 2024 was the increase in transparency and accountability in its operations. To accomplish this, the office utilized its website and social media platforms to regularly update the public on ongoing cases and initiatives.
One of the major accomplishments for the year was the introduction of quarterly bulletins summarizing the office’s activities, which were made available to the public. Gashi also emphasized the importance of engaging with citizens, who were given opportunities to voice concerns or complaints about case handling.
Acknowledging the contributions of civil society organizations and the media, Gashi expressed gratitude for the recommendations that helped shape the office’s objectives for the year. He also commended the implementation of alternative procedures in case management, such as mediation and plea agreements, which have proven to be effective. Notably, the number of plea agreements tripled compared to the previous year, and there was a significant increase in cases resolved through mediation.
Regarding asset forfeiture and confiscations, Gashi reported the seizure of property valued at €20 million, along with the confiscation of 48 vehicles and goods worth €194,000. These actions are part of the Prosecutor’s Office’s commitment to tackling organized crime and corruption.
Despite the successes, Gashi identified staffing shortages as a major challenge, as the office continues to handle a large volume of cases with a limited number of prosecutors.
Deputy Chief Prosecutor Elza Bajrami also addressed the conference, discussing the prosecution of the criminal group “Albkings.” Bajrami announced that the indictment against three individuals accused of crimes including “identity theft,” “blackmail,” and “coercion” is near finalization, and it will soon be submitted to the court. This case has significant implications for the victims, as it will provide moral compensation.
Bajrami also provided an update on a high-profile case involving the collapse of a roof at a municipal building in Prishtina. An indictment has been filed, and the accused individuals have reached plea agreements, agreeing to compensate the state for damages amounting to €36,000.
Overall, Bajrami reported a remarkable 100.06% efficiency rate for the Prishtina Prosecutor’s Office in 2024. Of the planned 45 activities for the year, 44 were completed, while three were partially realized, and only one activity was not completed.
The achievements presented by the Prosecutor’s Office underscore its ongoing commitment to improving the justice system in Kosovo, despite the challenges it faces in case management and staffing.
Reported by Kallxo.com/Rks.news
