11 Albanians returned from Syria to Kosovo

 Authorities in Kosovo said on Saturday that 11 citizens who had stayed in war zones in Syria had returned.

The Minister of Internal Affairs, Xhelal Sfeçla, said through social networks that "by returning these people, we are exercising our responsibility, not only to our citizens, but also as members of the Global Coalition to defeat ISIS", VOA reports.

The interior minister said the women and children who have returned need help and support, calling for their privacy to be respected.

"They have and deserve to have the time and space needed to adapt. Our government is helping them return to their families so that they can be reintegrated into their district," wrote Minister Sfeçla.

He said those who have committed crimes, here or abroad, will be prosecuted.

The return of Kosovo citizens from Syria was greeted by the US Embassy in Pristina, which through social media said that “The return of these citizens demonstrates Kosovo's willingness to take responsibility for its citizens, while setting an example for others. Kosovo is a leader in the fight against terrorism and extremism."

Since the beginning of the conflict in Syria, about 400 Kosovo citizens are believed to have been involved in the conflicts in the Middle East. Over 70 people have lost their lives, while hundreds have returned through the years from there, largely disappointed with what they have faced. More than 50 people have so far been convicted of involvement in wars in the Middle East incitement and recruitment of fighters. Authorities say fighters, women, and children from Kosovo are still in conflict zones.