Serbs and Albanians have been arrested in Kosovo in recent years on suspicion of spying for Serbia's intelligence services. The last arrest on such suspicions took place on May 6, and the detainee is suspected of spying for about 700 euros in compensation. While the cases are increasing, security experts say that Serbian intelligence has spread its roots throughout the territory of Kosovo over the years.
In recent years, Kosovo's security institutions have increased efforts to combat suspected espionage activities, mainly in favor of Serbian intelligence services.
The Police and the Special Prosecution Office have made several arrests as part of investigations into violations of national security.
Below we present some of the main cases, raising the question: Is Serbian intelligence really that active in Kosovo?
Cases of suspected espionage
On May 7, 2025, Hysri Selimi, a citizen of Kosovo, was arrested on suspicion of collaborating with the Serbian Intelligence Agency (BIA).
According to the investigative file, he is suspected of having sent data on radicalized individuals and their participation in the war in Syria.
Selimi had fought alongside ISIS and was sentenced to prison after his repatriation. For a compensation of around 700 euros, he allegedly shared information with the BIA, including data on political officials and security institutions.
In June 2024, two more Kosovar citizens – Bedri Shabani and Muharrem Qerimi – were arrested on suspicion of spying for the BIA. Shabani is accused of having distributed information from the 1998–1999 war period until his arrest. Qerimi is suspected of having provided information to the KLA, the Kosovo Police, the Kosovo Intelligence Agency (KIA), and witnesses for the Special Court.
In February 2025, a Serbian OSCE employee in North Mitrovica was arrested on suspicion of collaborating with Serbian intelligence, after being suspected of distributing sensitive information.
Other arrests and reactions
On 15 April 2025, acting Interior Minister Xhelal Sveçla announced the arrest of 16 people, including four suspected Serbian intelligence officers. However, most of them were released due to lack of sufficient evidence.
Security expert Burim Ramadani emphasizes that the increase in arrests indicates Serbia's continued efforts to destabilize Kosovo.
"The Serbian BIA, as in previous decades, remains very active in undermining Kosovo's statehood. In my opinion, it is absolutely clear that Serbia has a long-term plan or program to first make Kosovo unlivable, secondly, plunge it into internal instability, and thirdly, deepen the division between the Albanian majority and other communities," Ramadani declared.
Meanwhile, the Serbian intelligence agency has categorically denied that any of its members have been arrested in Kosovo. However, various local and international organizations have repeatedly raised concerns that Kosovo remains exposed to the influence of Serbian parallel structures and destabilization efforts.Radio Free Europe/
