Trial of Kosovo's former president Thaci begins in The Hague

04.04.2023 04:49

Ukrinform

The Hague war crimes tribunal has begun the trial of former Kosovo President Hashim Thaci, who is accused of murder and torture during the independence war with Serbia.

This is reported by Ukrinform, referring to BBC.

Thaci is accused of killing nearly 100 people and other crimes, including the enforced disappearance of people. The charges relate to Kosovo's war of independence against Serbia in 1998-1999, where more than 10,000 people died.

Prosecutors accuse Thaci, as well as Jakup Krasniqi, Kadri Veseli, and Recep Selimi of torture, murder, imprisonment, and other crimes against ethnic minorities.

The former president of Kosovo pleads not guilty and denies the charges.

As reported, in 1998-1999, Thaci led a rebellion against Serbian rule that eventually led to Kosovo's declaration of independence. At home, he is considered a war hero. In November 2020, the Special Kosovo Court established in The Hague brought 10 charges against Thaci for war crimes and crimes against humanity, including persecution, murder, torture, and enforced disappearance.

Fifty-four-year-old Tachi resigned shortly after the indictment was made public and he was taken to a detention center in The Hague.