Crane Collapse in Pristina: Hoti Demands Full Accountability and Announces Drone Inspections

Two young people were injured yesterday when a crane collapsed in the Hospital Neighborhood. One of them, a 26-year-old, succumbed to his injuries and died at the University Clinical Center of Kosovo.

Acting Minister of Labor, Family and Liberation War Values Andin Hoti spoke about the incident. He said the case is being reviewed and investigated by the Central Labor Inspectorate, the Pristina Municipal Inspectorate and other justice authorities.

In a statement to KP, Hoti described the incident as tragic and extremely serious, perhaps the most serious one they have been informed about. According to him, it is deplorable that the case is being used for attacks between parties at the central and municipal levels.

He said the Central Labor Inspectorate had issued a statement or response regarding the case. According to the preliminary information obtained so far, the equipment, or crane, was in the process of being assembled when the incident occurred.

Hoti stressed that the conclusions and other details will be made public after the prosecution presents its version and the Central Labor Inspectorate completes its full report. He called for such incidents not to be used irresponsibly, causing further distress to the families.

According to him, full accountability must be sought, and anyone found responsible must be held to account. Hoti added that responsibilities are divided and clearly defined by law, while the prosecution, relying on the legislation in force, will make the final decision.

The acting minister also announced that a decision had been made today which, according to him, is expected to be published tomorrow. Under this decision, from September 1 the Central Labor Inspectorate will switch exclusively to digital inspections, including the use of drones at worksites.

Hoti explained that inspectors will carry out their work using laptops, phones or other forms of technology. Once an inspector begins recording data, the information will automatically be sent to the system and the relevant servers.

He said this method of working would provide greater transparency as well as oversight of inspectors. According to Hoti, digitalization is expected to increase their oversight and efficiency, while drones will also be deployed for inspections from September 1.