Pristina sending police to monasteries in Kosovo due to frequent attacks on Orthodox shrines

Kosovo police have registered an increase in the number of attacks on the property of the Serbian Orthodox Church (SPC) in Kosovo, because of which they increased patrols on the ground.

Since the beginning of this year alone, a total of 13 damages to church property or attempted theft have been recorded.

"As of today, a total of 13 cases have been reported involving SPC facilities in different regions of Kosovo. Out of the total number of reported cases, nine are classified as cases of aggravated theft, and four as damage to property," the Kosovo Police told Kosovo Online in a written response.

The police also said that, in accordance with their powers, they registered and partially processed the perpetrators of criminal acts.

"After a case is reported, police units go to the scene, conduct investigations and collect material evidence, which is presented to the prosecutor's office and further investigative actions are coordinated. In certain cases, the perpetrators have been identified and charges have been filed against them, while other cases are still being investigated," they added in the statement.

In order to prevent attacks on the facilities of the Serbian Orthodox Church, the Kosovo Police is implementing a special operational action plan.

"After the increase in the number of reported cases in March 2021, the Kosovo police launched an additional operational plan, 'Kulti', which is implemented throughout Kosovo and includes a number of police units with the aim of preventive action and detection of perpetrators of crimes," the Kosovo police's response concluded.

(Telegraf.rs)