Head of OSCE Mission in Kosovo condemns northern Mitrovica/Mitrovice violence, regrets loss of life

PRISHTINE/PRISTINA, 2 July 2010 - The OSCE Mission in Kosovo condemned the violence today in northern Mitrovica/Mitrovice, in particular the use of explosive devices and firearms.

"The OSCE Mission in Kosovo deeply regrets the loss of life and the injuries sustained in the violence today," said the Head of the Mission, Ambassador Werner Almhofer. "I offer my condolences to the family of Dr. Mesud Dzekovic, who was a distinguished member of his community and wish a speedy recovery to those injured."

"I wholeheartedly condemn today's violence, which is of no benefit to anyone living in Kosovo and represents a challenge to public safety. I call on all people in Kosovo to keep calm and refrain from any further disturbance of the security situation, and on all relevant public safety agencies to investigate the case and bring the perpetrators to justice," said Almhofer.