17 Murders in 2024: Life Sentences and Other Severe Punishments

In 2024, 17 murders were reported in Kosovo, marking a decrease compared to 29 murders in 2023. Courts handed down several life sentences and other heavy punishments for these cases.

Key Convictions

  • Edmond Lajqi was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of his wife after admitting guilt and apologizing.
  • Dardan Krivaqa and Arbër Sejdiu were sentenced for the murder of Marigona Osmani. Krivaqa received a life sentence, while Sejdiu was sentenced to 15 years.
  • Valon Aliu, accused of murdering his ex-wife and injuring her brother, pleaded not guilty.
  • Enver Sekiraqa was sentenced to 25 years in prison for inciting the murder of police officer Triumf Riza.
  • Shpejtim Knushi was sentenced to 19 years and 6 months for a murder in Gjakova following a dispute over an electrical cable.

Other Ongoing Cases

  • Charges for the murder of Liridona Ademaj remain pending, while the trial of the suspects for the murder of businessman Bedri Rexhepi is still underway.
  • In Prizren, Haxhi Selmanaj is on trial for a murder following a physical altercation. Meanwhile, courts in Gjakova and Mitrovica have issued sentences for various murders committed for different motives.

The courts have addressed a wide range of cases, from family and property disputes to murders with unknown motives. The heavy sentences and continued trials demonstrate a strong commitment to justice.