Kosovo placed under heavy security ahead of The Hague ruling, Kosovo Police explains planned measures

Kosovo Police has responded to reports that the country is being placed under heavy security ahead of The Hague ruling. In a statement, the institution explained that police plans are drawn up as part of regular procedures and do not constitute an extraordinary measure.

“To properly inform the citizens of the Republic of Kosovo, as well as the wider public, we clarify that the planning and implementation of security measures in cases where developments, activities or large public participation are expected, as well as the drafting of police plans, are part of regular police procedures,” the statement said.

According to the police, such measures have also been planned for the peaceful solidarity march on September 12, 2026, as well as for other gatherings and activities. Their purpose is to safely manage crowds, guarantee public order and safety, regulate road traffic and ensure the normal conduct of activities.

“During the assessments and the drafting of plans, consideration is also given to the possibility that individuals or certain elements, including people from outside the country, may attempt to use large gatherings for provocations, incidents or destabilizing actions,” the statement said.

Police emphasized that these are preventive and standard measures, determined on the basis of the expected number of participants and an overall assessment of the situation.

At the same time, citizens and the media were urged to rely only on official statements and “avoid spreading unconfirmed claims, especially when they may affect perceptions of security and create unnecessary concern among the public.”

The response came after media reports that Kosovo Police had prepared a broad operational plan for September 16, the date on which the verdict against Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Jakup Krasniqi and Rexhep Selimi is expected to be announced in The Hague.