13 March 2014

EULEX strongly condemns yesterday's violence associated with the raid on the police station in Zubin Potok by a local mob that resulted in the unlawful release of a detained suspect, S.S., wanted for serious criminal offences.

EULEX further condemns yesterday's explosion in the vicinity of the police station and demands a thorough investigation of the events that prevented justice from taking its course in Zubin Potok. The rule of the mob cannot be tolerated in any society. This mob should be isolated, as it represents a threat to all law abiding citizens.

The rule of law demands that when there is a lawful arrest order issued, and there is an opportunity to enforce this legal decision, that arrest must take place, and the suspects detained in custody until they are interviewed by a prosecutor. Irrespective of guilt or innocence, due process must be observed by all civilised persons at all times.

EULEX prosecutors, together with EULEX police and Kosovo Police will work together to ensure that the perpetrators of the violence are identified and brought to justice. EULEX appeals to the public to come forward with any information relating to yesterday's event.