Kosovo Arrests Imam for Recruiting ’Jihadis’

Local Editor

Police in Kosovo arrested an imam on suspicion of recruiting Kosovars to fight in Iraq and Syria after 40 men were rounded up recently this week and ordered on Thursday to remain in detention.

The imam from the town of Gjilan is accused of recruiting for the purpose of terrorism and organizing and participating in a terrorist group.

Police said in a statement that, "He is suspected of being one of the main inspirers of "jihad.""

Moreover, the imam's arrest follows that of 40 men on Monday suspected of having fought with insurgents in Iraq and Syria. They were remanded in custody on Thursday for 30 days.

Police say 16 Kosovars have been killed in Iraq and Syria, while intelligence sources believe between 100 and 200 are fighting there.

A number of European countries including Britain, France and the Netherlands have begun cracking down on citizens going to join extreme insurrections in Iraq and Syria.

They are concerned such volunteers could eventually return to Europe battle-hardened, radicalized and posing a security threat.

Source: News Agencies, Edited by website team