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February 24, 2026 – Kosovo –
Kosovo authorities have formally indicted a man accused of threatening several journalists inside a courtroom during a high-profile trial, prosecutors announced on March 2, 2026, in Pristina. The move comes after video footage surfaced showing the suspect hurling insults and intimidating language at media workers covering the hearing, drawing criticism from press freedom and civil society groups.
The suspect, identified as B.M., was charged with threats and intimidation under Kosovo’s criminal code for his conduct during proceedings at the District Court of Pristina last year. In the widely circulated video, B.M. is seen confronting journalists inside the courtroom while they were recording and reporting on the trial of a separate defendant. During the outburst, he reportedly directed aggressive language toward reporters and attempted to physically block their ability to film.
Prosecutors say the indictment reflects “serious concern” about attacks on press freedom and the safety of journalists performing their duties in legal settings. The charges allege that B.M.’s actions constituted a breach of public order and an unlawful threat against journalists, undermining the principle of free media access to judicial proceedings. If convicted, he could face penalties that underscore the state’s stance on protecting reporters and judicial transparency.
Journalists present in the courtroom said the incident occurred during routine coverage of a criminal trial, when the atmosphere suddenly became confrontational as the suspect entered the gallery. Local media workers described feeling unsafe as he advanced on them, yelling and gesturing in a manner that suggested intimidation rather than mere disagreement with their reporting.
Press freedom advocates welcomed the indictment as an important step in signalling that journalists’ rights to report inside courtrooms must be respected and that threats against them will not be tolerated. The Association of Journalists of Kosovo released a statement urging authorities to ensure a fair prosecution and to take additional measures to safeguard media workers covering sensitive judicial events.
The formal charges follow months of deliberation by prosecutors, who reviewed video evidence and witness statements before proceeding with the indictment. The next court hearing is scheduled for later this spring, where judges will consider the evidence and determine whether the case proceeds to trial.
The incident and subsequent legal action have sparked broader discussion in Kosovo about ensuring safe working conditions for journalists, particularly in environments like courtrooms where tensions can run high and access to information is critical for public accountability.
Authorities have not yet commented on whether enhanced security measures will be implemented in courtrooms to prevent similar incidents. Journalists and civil society actors are calling for clear protocols to protect reporters covering judicial proceedings in the future.
Reference –
https://telegrafi.com/en/amp/threatened-journalists-with-indictment-against-suspect-in-2675309253
