British officer in discussion with the Serbs from Gracanica promised that the weapons would not be taken away if they did not use them
Nepier: As of today, "KLA" does not exist any more
by N. Zejak
Blic, Belgrade, FR Yugoslavia, September 19 1999
Gracanica, Pristina - Two days ago KFOR searched Serbian households in Gracanica, Susica, Badovac, Laplje Selo and Preoci. A larger quantity of weapons was found in the house of Ceda Markovic, who was taken to the Police. One hour later he was released since he cooperated with KFOR, Bob Nepier, British major said yesterday in Gracanica.After arrest of Markovic the Serbs gathered in front of KFOR office in Gracanica. Several young men attacked armored vehicles and ten KFOR soldiers. Two vehicles were burned but the situation calmed down when high English officers arrived.
Nepier said: "KFOR gave up the action of searching for and confiscating weapons but will try to keep the situation under control. I am asking you not to use weapons after we have made such decision. KFOR forces have been doubled. I guarantee that there will be no further conflicts between the two ethnic groups".
Nepier further said: "As of today, 'KLA' does not exist any more. KFOR undertakes full responsibility for the disarmament and reconstruction of 'KLA' into a civilian organization. All its members have to give up their arms and permissions for carrying the arms. Only permissions for personal guns issued by international Police will remain. Such arms may be possessed by every citizen regardless of the nationality if strict conditions for obtaining of such s permission are fulfilled. All vehicles with 'KLA' marks will be removed from the roads in Kosovo. Some 'KLA' members can return to civilian life, some can become members of the Police if the fulfill very strict conditions. There will be no national army of Kosovo, since Kosovo will not be an independent community, but will remain a part of Serbia". These words prompted a 10 minute applause by gathered Serbs.
Explaining the purpose of the Kosovo Corps, Napier explained that the Corps is not a defensive force since there is no enemy from whom they would defend the citizens. "Kosovo Corps will be multiethnic and whether Serbs will also be members of that formation depends on the cooperation of Serbs with KFOR and UNMiK," said Napier, adding: "I expect full cooperation from the locals and hence seek your assistance".
Translated in September 1999
