UN envoy deplores deadly attack on Kosovo Serbs

The senior United Nations envoy to Kosovo today strongly condemned an attack Sunday evening which left one Serb dead and four others injured.

"This is a deplorable act and stains Kosovo's image in the world," said Harri Holkeri.

Thirty-three year old Milomir Savic was treated for serious injuries as a result of the attack in Gjilane region, but died this morning.

Speaking at the launch of a UN organized weapons amnesty programme, Mr. Holkeri urged all people in Kosovo to ensure that violence has no place in their society, and encouraged those still holding illegal firearms to hand them over to the authorities.

"The amnesty is significant in two ways: as a sign of greater security and as a contribution to greater security," he said. "Every gun and every grenade taken off the streets is one less chance that a disagreement will have fatal consequences."

During the month-long effort, citizens of Kosovo can surrender unauthorized weapons without fear of prosecution. After 30 September, those with illegal arms will be liable to prosecution and imprisonment of up to eight years or a fine of up to 7,500 euros.

"The people of Kosovo should seize this opportunity to help themselves while helping Kosovo," Mr. Holkeri said.

Also today, the envoy attended the opening ceremony of Bajram Curri Elementary School in Slatina village. "Let Kosovo's children learn from their innocence and let them be educated in the values of tolerance and democracy that are the foundation of a free society," he told participants.