Prishtinë, 6 June 2014 – After the dissemination of the information that there was an explosion with death and injury consequences within the Electrolytic Unit of the TPP Kosovo A, of Kosovo Energetic Cooperation (KEC), the Ombudsperson, Mr. Sami Kurteshi, immediately visited the place.

Very concerned about the situation and possible danger, the Ombudsperson contacted medical teams who provided first medical aide to injured workers, teams that offered security in the area identified as of potential risk (Kosovo Police, Kosovo Security Forces and Firefighters) as well as the managerial staff and KEC workers.

The chaotic situation that prevailed all around the area where KPP is located as well as lack of thorough information about the incident by KEC competent body or other state security bodies, have deeply hampered obtaining of accurate and correct information. Confusion is observed in managing of this crisis situation and lack of communication, whether with KEC employees, distressed family members, media and with the public in general.

From contacts and information obtained from the site inspection and people that were near to the place of accident when exploding occurred, the Ombudsperson comes to the conclusion that KPP infrastructural conditions are insufficient in providing of appropriate safety to KEC employee. This terrible accident that happened, at the same time, reveals lack of strategy for situation management and communication in case of crises.

The Ombudsperson expresses his deep sorrow for victims of this tragedy, while to those injured in this occasion, who have been visited by OI representatives in University Clinical Centre, wishes soon recovery.

Thorough investigation by all relevant bodies has been requested by the Ombudsperson on this case as well as undertaking of all measures in preventing such tragedies in the future.