Derek CHAPPELL, Spokesperson

UNMIK Police Briefing Notes
23 July, 2002

TWO CHILDREN DIE IN STORM

A violent storm occurred yesterday evening at about 19:00h in Gjakova, with high winds, heavy rain, and lightning. A group of children took shelter under a metal container. Tragically, the container was lifted by the winds and then dropped back on to the children. Two young boys were killed, another young boy sustained severe injuries, and three other children escaped with minor injuries.

The storm also destroyed the homes of five families, and the victims were sheltered at the police station. Approximately fifty other buildings and homes are confirmed severely damaged. We are conducting a survey of the area and expect to discover more damage. The storm knocked out power and telephone service for about four hours, and fallen trees blocked the roads until about 23:00h.

DOUBLE MURDER

A double murder occurred in Mazgit Village, near Obilic, yesterday at about 1840 hrs. The responding police offices found two victims - one female and one male - had been shot. A known male suspect fled from the scene and police are searching for him.

MURDER

On 20-07-02, in Pec region, a 70 year-old man was murdered by his 26 year-old son during an argument. The weapon used was an axe handle. The suspect was arrested.

DEATH OF A POLICE OFFICER

A 29 year-old UNMIK police officer was found dead in his apartment on Saturday. Michael RAU, from Germany, had been in Kosovo since November. We offer our condolences and sympathy to his family and friends.

The information in this report is accurate to the extent of the information known at the time of it's writing. However, further investigations may result in changes to what previously have been reported.

For more information contact the Office of Press and Public Information, UNMIK Police MHQ
Phone 504-604-5071, 3rd floor, office 72