by Lt.-Cdr. Philip Anido, KFOR Spokesperson
Pristina, 15 February 2000
Update on Mitrovica
Since the attack on KFOR peacekeepers last Sunday, a total of 51 people have been arrested by KFOR in connection with the violence. Of this number, six have been released following interrogation.
Last night the curfew was imposed from 6p.m. until 6 a.m. this morning. There were no security incidents during the night.
KFOR is conducting intensive searches of houses and buildings for weapons and evidence of any criminal or violent intent. Yesterday morning in two separate searches, 1 AK-47, two pistols and ammunition were confiscated and three Albanian men and woman were arrested.
Ambulance Loaded with Weapons
Early yesterday afternoon a well-marked ambulance with its emergency signals flashing, overturned on the Pristina to Mitrovica highway near Novo Selo. KFOR soldiers and UNMIK police rushed to the scene to assist with any injured.
However the driver and passenger fled, leaving behind a quantity of weapons. There were 14 anti-tank rocket launchers, 182 high explosive grenades, two hand grenades, an AK-47 rifle, and a large quantity of ammunition. UNMIK police is investigating.
Events and incidents in Kosovo during the last 24 hours:
Demonstrations
A peaceful demonstration showing support for fellow Albanians in Mitrovica took place in Lipljan yesterday between 12:30 and 2 p.m. Approximately 6,000 people attended.
Incidents and Injuries
Yesterday morning in Lepina (MNB Centre), a hand grenade was thrown into an occupied Serb house. There were no injuries, but two people were taken to the Kosovo Polje hospital for observation.
Yesterday evening in Pristina (MNB Centre), a firebomb was thrown at an unoccupied Serb apartment. KFOR British troops quickly put out the fire.
Weapons Confiscations
Yesterday in Pristina (MNB Centre) during two separate house searches, one rifle, one pistol and 275 rounds of ammunition were confiscated. UNMIK police are investigating.
Yesterday afternoon in Pacaj (MNB West), KFOR troops searched an abandoned house and found an anti-tank rocket launcher, eight rockets, one anti-tank mine, dynamite, and ammunition. KFOR is investigating.