https://rks.news/prosecution-files-indictment-against-suspect-accused-of-smuggling-migrants-into-kosovo/

The Basic Prosecution Office in Prizren has filed an indictment against a suspect identified as U.K., for the criminal offense of “Smuggling of Migrants”, based on a “well-grounded suspicion” that he facilitated the illegal entry of foreign nationals into Kosovo for material gain.

According to the indictment, on November 19, 2024, near the Vërmica border crossing, the defendant allegedly smuggled four individuals—two Egyptian nationals, one Moroccan, and one Syrian—into Kosovo, after coordinating with a person known only as “A.” several days prior.

The prosecution outlines that on November 14, 2024, U.K. had made arrangements with “A.” regarding the timing of the migrants’ illegal entry from Albania to Kosovo, outside of any official border checkpoint. On the critical day, U.K. rented a Golf 7 vehicle from a local car rental company and traveled to the Vërmica area.

There, he allegedly picked up the migrants who had illegally crossed the Albania–Kosovo border, intending to transport them toward the Kosovo–Serbia border in exchange for financial compensation. The smuggling attempt was interrupted when police intercepted the vehicle, finding the four migrants inside. Due to the police intervention, the suspect did not receive any financial benefit, as intended.

In its statement, the prosecution emphasized:

“The defendant engaged in migrant smuggling for the purpose of obtaining direct or indirect financial or material benefit from the illegal entry of persons who are not citizens of the Republic of Kosovo.”

The case prosecutor has requested that, following judicial review, evidence administration, and evaluation, the defendant be found guilty and sentenced in accordance with the law.