Hearing on Terrorist Attack Against Ibër-Lepenc Canal to Be Held Today

The Basic Court in Pristina will today hold a hearing in the case against Jovan and Dragisha Viqentijeviq, who are accused of involvement in the November 2023 terrorist attack on the Ibër-Lepenc Canal.

As at the initial hearing, both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.

The Special Prosecution Office of the Republic of Kosovo claims that evidence obtained during the investigation proves the defendants’ involvement in the criminal offenses with which they are charged.

According to the prosecution, the investigation also identified the role of the Serbian government in preparing the attack.

Weapons, ammunition, military equipment, communication devices and other physical evidence were seized during the investigation. The prosecution says forensic analyses, including DNA tests and other expert examinations, also establish links between the defendants and the scene of the incident.

The defense, meanwhile, has challenged the prosecution’s claims. The lawyers have asked the court to assess the case objectively, arguing that the indictment does not clearly specify the actions allegedly taken by their clients.

Jovan and Dragisha Viqentijeviq, together with Igor Dimoviq, are charged with endangering the constitutional order, committing a terrorist offense and unlawful possession of weapons. In addition to these charges, Jovan Viqentijeviq is also charged with espionage.

The explosion at the Ibër-Lepenc Canal took place in November 2023 in the village of Varagë in Zubin Potok, damaging one of the main pieces of infrastructure supplying Kosovo with water and electricity. Today’s hearing is expected to continue with the presentation of evidence and consideration of the arguments submitted by the parties.