AGK condemns police action against Periscop journalist

A police official had called journalist Ahmetxhekaj on the phone as it was investigating the case of possible misuse with release from quarantine. He had told her that “had committed criminal acts” after having contacted two persons linked to the case. The police official had not shown what criminal act it was about.

“The AGK has contacted the Kosovo Police, asking which police official has prevented journalist Ahmetxaj from performing official duty, on what right she has requested material on which the journalist is investigating the topic in question, and on what basis the journalist in question has been told he committed a criminal offence. So far, we haven't received answers to our questions. ” ) says in response.

The AGK has condemned this case and has called on the law bodies not to interfere with the work of journalists.

Full response: 

AGK concerned with police action on journalist Ylka Ahmetxekaj

PRISTINA, 06,05,2020 ) Kosovo Journalists' Association yesterday (5 May 2020) has questioned journalist Ylka Ahmetjekaj's complaint of obstruction during the official task he was prompted by a member of the Kosovo Police.

Reference to the AGK-led complaint, portal journalist Periskopi) has been hampered during research over a quarantined case, even though respondents have been relaxed in conversation and have not shown a reluctance to negotiate. During her work, she was called by a person who appeared as an investigative police officer in Gjilan. He has told Ahmetzhekaj that he committed criminal acts and that further calls will follow where her work in the case will be considered further.

Since such a call has been carried out by the official number of Investigation Units in Gjilan, AGK has contacted the Kosovo Police, asking which police official has prevented journalist Ahmetxaj from carrying out his official position, on what right the journalist is investigating the topic in question, and on what basis the journalist in question has been told he has committed a criminal act. So far, we haven't received answers to our questions.

AGK condemns such approaches to journalists and reminds state officials that they should refrain from verbal attacks and pressures on media. The AGK also calls on state institutions, including the Police, to respect the work of journalists and assist them in a more accurate and professional reporting.