Security experts in Pristina believe that Kosovo and its security institutions have failed to prevent certain radical actions and that they should now enforce special and comprehensive measures to prevent extremism in the country. Experts argue that the Kosovo Intelligence Agency (KIA) should set up a special department, in addition to the anti-terrorism department, that would deal exclusively with extremism.
Naim Maloku, military and security expert, told Radio Free Europe that all law enforcement mechanisms need to implement measures aimed at preventing criminal extremist groups from using Kosovo as their haven. “I think the Kosovo Intelligence Agency should have a special department that would address such phenomenon and investigate people who could eventually try to join such movements,” Maloku said.
Maloku also said that law enforcement mechanisms should prevent Kosovo citizens from fighting in foreign wars and that the Islamic Community of Kosovo should have a role in preventing such phenomenon. “More involvement is needed from the Islamic Community of Kosovo. In their preaching, religious leaders should be more active in their statements,” Maloku said.
Florian Qehaja, director of the Kosovo Center for Security Studies, said Kosovo is now faced with a high-level risk from radical Islamic groups. “I think security institutions in Kosovo are lagging behind because so far we have not seen sufficient efforts by police in identifying these groups and especially filing indictments against some of them as a preventive measure. I think the failure rests with the police, prosecution and judiciary, because they have failed to conclude what is known as generic investigations,” Qehaja added. He also said security and judicial institutions have information and indications that certain radical groups could use force in Kosovo. “There are accurate indications that these groups have the potential and could plan to use force in Kosovo. Certain terrorist groups have included Kosovo in a map of countries where they plan to exercise their power. The government of Kosovo and society in general need to do their best in identifying all these cells. Special attention is required at the Pristina International Airport,” Qehaja said.
