Balaj, Idriz fr

Idriz Balaj was a member of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) and the commander of the special unit known as the “Black Eagles” created with the approval of Ramush Haradinaj in April 1998. Balaj was subordinate to Haradinaj, a former leader of the KLA, working closely with him and providing direct operational support for the criminal activities in the Dukagjin Operational Zone during the 1998-99 conflict with Serb forces.

Balaj was indicted with Ramush Haradinaj and Lahi Brahimaj.  He was charged with 18 counts of crimes against humanity and 19 counts of violations of the laws or customs of war for crimes committed by KLA forces beginning 24 March 1998. The alleged crimes included harassment, deportation or forcible transfer of civilians, imprisonment, torture, murders, rape, abduction and cruel treatment.

On 14 March 2005, Balaj pleaded not guilty to all charges against him during his initial appearance before the ICTY. On 3 April 2008, the ICTY Trial Chamber I acquitted Balaj of all charges.