„Our goal is not to replace any security structure but to support those within security structures who genuinely want to do their job,“ the Serbian Democracy leader Aleksandar Arsenijević told KoSSev, denouncing claims that he is trying to establish “parallel security structures” with his recent proposal to create „Neighborhood Watch“ in North Mitrovica. He emphasized that the initiative’s purpose is to monitor and report criminal acts, not to take justice into their own hands.
The idea emerged after a local woman reported being harassed by a group of men from a car. Serbian Democracy noted that similar incidents have recently become more frequent and criticized the police for allegedly failing to respond. Arsenijević stressed that the initiative is meant to empower citizens to safeguard their neighborhoods without overstepping legal boundaries.
Legal Concerns and Criticism
Despite these assurances, some see the initiative as a threat to public order. Elvir Imeri, president of the Kosovo Bar Association in Mitrovica, expressed concerns that the project resembles illegal security groups like the „Bridge Watchers,“ Mitropol portal reports.
„Such initiatives, organized with duty division and citizen patrols, imply the creation of parallel security structures, which contradict the exclusive authority of the Kosovo Police,“ Imeri stated, urging the prosecution to investigate Arsenijević.
Kosovo Police Deputy Commander for the Northern Region, Veton Elshani, acknowledged that the idea falls within the law but stressed the need for a thorough review. He noted that the municipality already has a Public Safety Board, and any similar initiative should be discussed within this framework.
Building Community Trust
Arsenijević insists the initiative is a community effort, not a political maneuver. He called on all citizens, regardless of ethnicity, to participate.
„We are witnessing increasing attacks, harassment, and the presence of sexual predators in our city. We can no longer remain silent—it’s time to organize,“ he said, encouraging cooperation with the police.
To address legal concerns, the group has drafted a guide outlining members’ rights and duties, stressing that the goal is violence prevention, not punitive action. Activities would include surveillance, recording public incidents, and alerting law enforcement, while explicitly prohibiting citizen arrests, searches, or the use of force unless in self-defense.
While the police acknowledged the potential of community collaboration, they cautioned against politicizing the initiative, given Arsenijević’s role as a political leader. Elshani reiterated that any citizen collaboration must respect existing legal frameworks and the municipality’s public safety board.
Srpska Demokratija Launches “Neighborhood Watch” Following Harassment Incident in North Mitrovica
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