In a press release, Kosovo Police informed that it is already in possession of a plan to ensure safety and security during the upcoming protest.

“With the intention of informing public opinion on the protest which will be held on 17 February, at 14:00 hours, Kosovo Police has made all the required preparations by drafting the operational plan,” says the press release.

The strategic aim of this operational plan is:

*Overall security in the Republic of Kosovo, maintaining public order and security as well as law enforcement.

*Increasing security measures that will guarantee order, peace and public security, prior to, during and after the protest.

*Undertaking required police measures against eventual illegal action and combating any disruptive activity that may cause instability.

*Prevention, tackling disruptive activity and eventual criminal activity which could endanger public peace at any level or destroy and damage public or private property.

As a law enforcement institution, the Kosovo Police will undertake all actions in line with the Constitution of Kosovo, the law and the drafted plan, to guarantee public order and peace, to ensure safety and security during the protest and create the possibility of free movement for all citizens.

The Kosovo Police recognizes citizens' right to public gatherings, freedom of speech at public gatherings, protests and manifestations in line with the Constitution of the Republic of Kosovo and the rule of law.

Law enforcement, guarantee of order and peace, freedom of movement and fluidity during the protest, are priorities for the Kosovo Police plan.

Based on the history of protests that have taken place in the past and assessments of the situation, the Kosovo Police is in possession of information suggesting that different individuals may use weapons that can cause violence or endanger the security of the citizens and police officials during the protests, such as different kinds of hard objects, Molotov cocktail, not excluding firearms.

Kosovo Police appeals to all levels of citizens to be careful and restrain from any violent actions, which could lead to negative consequences for the protesters themselves and police officers maintaing order and public security.

To ensure security and create the most safe environment possible for journalists, Kosovo Police politely requests the media, journalists and photo-reporters, to carry necessary identification, including IDs, reflective vests and PRESS signs.

This request aims at provide them with a working space through their identification, offering security and avoiding any kind of potential incident.

The Kosovo Police is also committed to guaranteeing overall order and security during the festive activities in honor of the anniversary of the declaration of  independence of Kosovo, and enabling dignified celebrations on this important date,” says the press release.