Prosecutor’s Office confirms bone remains in Zubin Potok believed to belong to at least 23 people

The Special Prosecutor’s Office of the Republic of Kosovo, the Kosovo Police and the Institute of Forensic Medicine have announced a new discovery during excavation and exhumation operations at suspected locations in Zubin Potok.

According to the initial assessment by forensic experts, bone remains believed to belong to at least 23 individuals have been found in the area.

Their final identification is expected to be carried out only after the forensic examinations and other necessary procedures have been completed.

Investigations and procedural actions will continue by the Special Prosecutor’s Office and the Kosovo Police, through the Directorate for the Investigation of War Crimes and in cooperation with the relevant institutions.

Full statement:

JOINT STATEMENT BY THE KOSOVO POLICE, THE SPECIAL PROSECUTOR’S OFFICE AND THE INSTITUTE OF FORENSIC MEDICINE

Pristina, August 19, 2026

The Special Prosecutor’s Office of the Republic of Kosovo, in cooperation with the Kosovo Police and the Institute of Forensic Medicine, informs the public that during excavation and exhumation activities in the Zubin Potok case, forensic experts confirmed another finding on Wednesday at the suspected locations.

Based on the preliminary assessment, teams from the Institute of Forensic Medicine identified bone remains believed to belong to at least 23 individuals.

The full identification process will take place after the forensic examinations and relevant procedures have been completed.

The Special Prosecutor’s Office and the Kosovo Police, through the Directorate for the Investigation of War Crimes and in coordination with the other competent institutions, will continue the investigations and procedural actions related to this case.

Three people, J.R., M.J. and M.B., are being investigated in connection with this matter and are suspected of the criminal offense of “War crimes against the civilian population.” All three are in pretrial detention.

The Special Prosecutor’s Office of the Republic of Kosovo, the Kosovo Police and the Institute of Forensic Medicine underline their commitment to conducting a professional, impartial and documented process, while fully respecting the dignity of the victims and the families of missing persons. Any new information will be made public in accordance with legal requirements and the needs of the investigation.