The quiet village of Banjska near the Serbian border faced a violent attack during the early hours of September 24, 2023. This led to the tragic loss of a Kosovo police officer with one officer severely injured while another sustained minor injuries. The remote village hadn’t experienced such attacks in recent months making this an unexpected event.
Police were on site to investigate reports of a road blockade involving two trucks at approximately 03:00. As they arrived, officers became victims of a multi-directed assault. These assailants were reported to have utilized a wide range of firearms, including hand grenades and shoulder-fired missiles. An estimated group of 30 individuals composed the attacking party, who subsequently fled and took shelter in the Banjska Monastery in Zvecan. Safe within the monastery’s walls, the group continued their onslaught.
According to a public address by Albin Kurti, the current Prime Minister of Kosovo, the group was referred to as a ‘professional terrorist formation’ who meticulously planned this attack. Prime Minister Kurti further alleged that the group’s operations are financially supported by Belgrade, although this claim requires further investigation.
The ongoing gunfire exchange between the police and the terrorists lasted for hours, resulting in 3 gunmen getting killed and 4 arrested. Concurrently, the police are scrutinizing the escape of the remaining members, who may have disguised themselves among the monks and pilgrims within the monastery.
In the aftermath of the siege, Kosovo’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Xhelal Sveçla, shared that the police had discovered an assortment of heavy explosives, infantry weapons, and barricade equipment in the monastery premises, which could have possibly accommodated several hundred militants.
Vjosa Osmani, the President of Kosovo, declared the following Monday as a day of state mourning to honor the slain police officer, Afrim Bunjaku. The brutal attack has left the citizens of Kosovo in deep shock and sorrow, with demands for justice and a thorough inquiry into the motives behind this atrocious act gaining momentum. Despite its grief, Kosovo is determined to uphold its commitment to peace and security within its borders.
You can read the detailed account of the incident here.