(A joint statement from EULEX, KFOR and KP) 31 August, 2011

Today, EULEX Special Police, supported by units of KFOR, carried out an operation in northern Kosovo related to the murder of a Kosovo Police officer on 26 July 2011. Regular KP units from the Mitrovica Region maintained public law and order while the operation was ongoing .

The investigation into the murder is being carried out jointly by EULEX and Kosovo Police who are working closely together to solve the crime.

In today’s operation, four private premises in Zubin Potok and Zupce were searched and evidence was seized. This material included weapons and a vehicle. All this evidence is now being analyzed by prosecutors and investigators. The operation passed off peacefully, without major incident.

EULEX can confirm that arrest warrants exist for six individuals who are wanted in connection with the murder of the KP officer.

Today’s operation is a further step in bringing the perpetrators of this crime to justice.

Investigations are continuing in relation to the other violent incidents in the north, including the burning of Gate 1.

The rule of law must prevail for the benefit of all communities in Kosovo. It is important that local residents continue to support the actions of those trying to bring those who are responsible for serious crimes, to justice.