More than 170 individuals are currently wanted by the Kosovo Police, with many suspected of fleeing across the border into Serbia, a country often accused of sheltering fugitives wanted for serious crimes, including terrorist attacks, war crimes, and murders.
Among the most recent cases are Mefail, Edonis, and Engjull Shkodra, who have been on the run for three weeks over a triple murder in Gjilan, as well as Xhemail Nuhiu, suspected of a murder in Hajvali. Their whereabouts are believed to be in Serbia.
Data from the Kosovo Police shows that at least 15 of the publicly listed fugitives are wanted for murder, attempted murder, or incitement to murder. While the majority of those on the wanted list are pursued for theft, some of the most serious offenders—including those suspected of terrorism, organized crime, and war crimes—are thought to be hiding in Serbia.
Illegal Crossings and Safe Refuge
Retired police colonel Refki Morina explained that fugitives often escape using illegal border crossings and rely on smugglers familiar with the terrain:
“The length of the border between Kosovo and Serbia is considerable, and it is difficult to fully control all areas. Many fugitives know the terrain well and exploit smugglers to cross into Serbia illegally,” Morina said.
He added that Serbia does not return Kosovo citizens who enter illegally, providing de facto refuge for criminals.
Security Risks for Kosovo
Morina also warned that Serbia could exploit these fugitives for political or intelligence purposes:
“Given the nature of the Serbian regime, individuals wanted for serious crimes in Kosovo could be recruited by Serbian security agencies such as BIA to provide information on our institutions, judiciary, and overall security developments,” he cautioned.
Shelter for Terrorists and War Crimes Suspects
In addition to murder suspects, Serbia is believed to be harboring individuals involved in the Banjska terrorist attack, the Varage assault in Zubin Potok, as well as suspects of war crimes committed during the conflict.
Kosovo Police Wanted List
According to the active online registry of the Kosovo Police, 174 people are officially wanted.
- Over 60 cases relate to theft and armed robbery.
- Others are pursued for drug trafficking, smuggling, arson, assault, sexual violence, identity theft, bank card fraud, and fraud schemes.
