Ilaz Kodra (3 May 1966 – 30 April 1999) was one of the founders and early commanders of Kosovo Liberation Army, who died during the Battle of Shtuticë, he is regarded as one of the most prominent leaders of the KLA and the "right hand of Adem Jashari".[1][2]
Early life
Ilaz Kodra was born on May 3, 1966, in Prekaz i Epërm, Kosovo. He completed his primary education in his hometown, followed by eight years of schooling and secondary education in Skënderaj. After high school, he enrolled in the Higher Commercial School in Pejë and fulfilled his mandatory military service in the Yugoslav People's Army in Slovenia.[3]
In collaboration with like-minded individuals, including the Jashari Brothers, several Members of the Selimi and Lushtaku Families, Kodra helped form the first nucleus of what would later become the Kosovo Liberation Army, initially known as the Army of Kosovo. In 1991, Kodra, along with his comrades, crossed into Albania to undergo military training, facilitated with the knowledge and support of Albanian President Ramiz Alia. Amongst the most known members of the group where Adem Jashari, Hamëz Jashari, Zahir Pajaziti and Sali Çekaj.[4]
Kodra played a crucial role in the early armed actions of the KLA. On May 22, 1993, Kodra, along with Sami Lushtaku, Besim Rama, and others, launched a successful ambush against Serbian police forces near Drenas. The attack killed five Serbian officers and injured several others, signaling the start of armed resistance in the region. This act of defiance inspired the local population, fueling the belief that Kosovo's liberation was possible.[5][6]
By October 1996, the Serbian occupation authorities had initiated legal proceedings against Kodra, Adem Jashari, and 13 of their fellow fighters ( including Hashim Thaqi and Rexhep Selimi ). They were charged with forming a "terrorist group" and accused of stockpiling weapons, conducting military training, and preparing for attacks against Serbian forces. The indictment detailed their training in Albania and the group's efforts to arm and mobilize for guerrilla warfare in Kosovo, specifically in the neighboring regions of Drenica, Mitrovicë and Peja.[1]
Kodra's military acumen was particularly evident in the rugged terrain of the Qyqavica mountains and throughout Central Drenica.[7] His leadership extended beyond planning; he was actively involved in combat operations, demonstrating a hands-on approach to warfare. He was instrumental in training and mobilizing troops, including volunteers from local communities and members of his own family, such as Samiu, Hasani, Nysreti, and others. His brigade became a symbol of resilience, fighting against overwhelming odds in the face of Serbian aggression.[1]
On April 30, 1999, while defending civilians in the village of Shtuticë, Ilaz Kodra fell in battle. His comrade, Zenun Kodra, recalled the fierce fight against Serbian forces that morning. His death occurred while he was defending his position against a Serbian assault, and it marked a significant loss for the KLA.[1][12]
^Vaknin, Sam (2004-04-08). Terrorists and Freedom Fighters. Narcissus Publications. Contrary to typically shallow information in the media, the KLA has been known to have operated in Kosovo as early as the attack on policemen in Glogovac in May 1993.