14 May 2008
Mitrovica, Kosovo - The Portuguese Kosovo Force Tactical Reserve Manoeuvre Battalion (KTM) was deployed in North Mitrovica from March 28th to April 28th. It was responsible for an area within the city that included the Mitrovica Courthouse.
KTM protected the courthouse and in order to maintain a safe and secure environment conducted day and night patrols.
During foot- vehicle- or mixed patrols KTM soldiers show respect for inhabitants. For example, on April 23, a KTM soldiers met a Kosovo-Serbian funeral cortege while patrolling on their way. KTM vehicles stopped and turned off the engines, soldiers went out of their vehicles, two of them took a safe and security position and the others assumed a respected attitude to the members of the passing funeral cortege.
KTM commander Lt. Col. Serra Pedro said, “It is important to know the traditions of local people. We are peacekeeping soldiers and our mission here is to contribute a safe and secure environment in Kosovo. We respect multiethnic inhabitant’s habits and institutions.”
The mission in Mitrovica was not easy at all. The Portuguese soldiers had just arrived in Kosovo and the shadow of 17th of March riots was still in the air. 1st Sergeant Mario Dias told during a foot patrol in northern part of Mitrovica: “Now the local people see KTM with respect, but in the beginning the situation was tense. During our patrols we gained their respect and trust”.
(Story by Major João Bernardino, Portuguese Army)
