Pristina, July 7, 2026 – The Ombudsperson, based on complaints received from several citizens, information sent by various NGOs, as well as information collected from the media, has decided to open an ex officio investigation into allegations of ill-treatment by police officers of those arrested during the Vidovdan celebration in Gazimestan on June 28, 2026.

The Ombudsperson Institution has opened investigations into the published allegations and complaints received from several citizens arrested by the Kosovo Police, that they were exposed to physical and psychological violence during their transportation to the police station, as well as that other rights guaranteed by the Constitution and laws in force were violated against them.

The investigations have been initiated with the aim of verifying the facts and circumstances of the case, as well as to assess whether the treatment of the arrested persons has respected the constitutional, legal and international standards for the protection of fundamental human rights and freedoms.

The Ombudsperson Institution reiterates that every person deprived of liberty must be treated with dignity and in accordance with the principle of absolute prohibition of physical ill-treatment, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. Any allegation of excessive use of force or violation of the rights of persons deprived of liberty requires an independent, impartial, effective and prompt investigation.

Within the framework of the investigations, the Ombudsperson Institution will undertake all necessary actions, including the collection of relevant information and documentation from the competent authorities, in accordance with the constitutional and legal mandate of the Institution.

After the completion of the investigations, the Ombudsperson Institution will inform the public and interested parties of the relevant findings and recommendations, in accordance with its legal competences.