by Lt.-Cdr. Philip Anido, KFOR Spokesperson
Pristina, 23 February 2000
Mitrovica Update
Two disturbing incidents occurred yesterday involving attacks on KFOR peacekeepers. At 3 p.m. young men threw stones at KFOR German soldiers and their vehicle in North Mitrovica, and in the Roma district, several kilometers north of the city on the road to Zvecan, shots were fired at a KFOR French patrol. A search of the area is underway. No one was hurt in either incident.
The curfew was in effect last night from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. and no incidents were reported during the period.
The search for weapons recommenced at 5 a.m. this morning in several quarters. In the area known as Little Bosnia just north of the Eastern Bridge, KFOR French soldiers cordoned off the streets, while KFOR US units and UNMIK police conducted the search. A number of rifles, one rocket-propelled grenade and a quantity of ammunition were confiscated. Several men have been detained.
KFOR patrols will continue to maintain a high presence in all neighbourhoods of the city, and the search for weapons in buildings, houses and vehicles will also continue. Furthermore, the practice of rotating companies of mechanized infantry and specialized units from the many nations represented in the other KFOR brigades, will be maintained.
It is in the very best interest of all citizens of Kosovo to assist KFOR and UNMIK police rid their communities of dangerous weapons. KFOR appreciates the cooperation of the many good citizens and families who welcomed the presence of KFOR peacekeepers as they conducted their searches.
Events and incidents in Kosovo during the last 24 hours:
Deaths
Yesterday near the military airport of Dakovica (MNB West), a KFOR patrol found the body of an Albanian man who had been shot in the head. An investigation is underway.
Searches and Weapons Confiscations
Yesterday afternoon in Pristina and Konjusevac (MNB Centre), KFOR UK soldiers confiscated one rifle and a pistol during house searches. Last night, another KFOR patrol found six anti-personnel mines during a house search.
Yesterday evening, a KFOR patrol in Prizren (MNB South) found one AK-47 rifle and ammunition. Two Albanian men were detained.
Last night in Dakovica (MNB West), KFOR troops confiscated and AK-47 rifle during a house search and arrested an Albanian man for questioning.
Media Opportunity
The newly arrived Commander of Multinational Brigade (Center), Brigadier Richard Shirreff, will hold a short press conference today immediately following the normal press briefing. Brigadier Shirreff recently assumed command of MNB(C). He will brief the press on his Brigade and its responsibilities and will then entertain questions.