Tensions have risen between the two neighbours, who fought a bloody war in the late 1990s.

Kosovo police have fired tear gas and stun grenades at protesters as they arrested a Serb official after he was banned from visiting a divided town in northern Kosovo, according to reports.

It is a move likely to inflame tensions between the two foes, who fought a brutal war in 1999.

Serbia’s government quickly announced that the country’s state security council would hold an emergency meeting.