In North Mitrovica, the demolition of more than 20 garages began early this morning near the detention center area. According to some reports, over 23 structures were targeted in an operation carried out by “Trepça Jug,” which claims ownership of the land.
The action was conducted with the assistance of the Kosovo Police, and heavy machinery was deployed on site.
EULEX and Italian KFOR contingents were also present as observers.
“Trepça Jug” claims that the garages were illegally built on its property and that users had been given a 48-hour deadline to remove their belongings before the demolition.
Municipality response: “Operation carried out without coordination, misleading timing claims”
The Municipality of North Mitrovica stated that it had not been officially informed or consulted regarding the operation.
According to municipal officials, the demolition began earlier than previously announced, which they described as misleading conduct and procedural irregularity.
The municipality further argued that the police acted beyond their mandate by taking an executive role in the process and called on the international community to react.
Kosovo Police position: Veton Elshani says police acted within mandate and were not obliged to notify municipality
Deputy Commander of the Kosovo Police for the northern region, Veton Elshani, stated that the police were not acting as an executive body in the demolition of garages in North Mitrovica, but were present only to provide assistance in the implementation of a request submitted by “Trepça Jug.”
He stressed that the operation was carried out within the police mandate and in coordination with relevant competent institutions.
Elshani rejected allegations that the police acted unlawfully or in a deceptive manner, adding that in such cases the police are not obliged to separately notify the municipality when acting upon a request from an authorized entity.
Mayor Radojević: “We are witnessing the demolition of legality”
The Mayor of North Mitrovica, Milan Radojević, visited the site and strongly criticized the operation, stating that what is happening represents, in his words, “the demolition of legality” and a takeover of executive authority by the police.
He announced legal steps, including engagement with prosecutors and potential lawsuits, with further details to be coordinated with legal teams.
“We have no point in addressing the police, because they are protecting those who hold force,” Radojević said.
Trepça Jug: “Process of reclaiming property will continue”
On the other side, “Trepça Jug” stated that the operation is part of a broader process of reclaiming its property and removing what it describes as illegally placed structures.
The company added that the action will continue until the land is fully returned under its management.
Political reactions: allegations of illegality and institutional overreach
The Office for Kosovo and Metohija described the demolition as “illegal and brutal,” claiming it violates property and existential rights of the Serb population and was carried out without consent from local Serbian institutions.
Press conference at 14:00
On this occasion, the mayor will hold a press conference at 14:00 in the premises of the Municipality of North Mitrovica.
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