Protesters in Kosovo support judges

KOSOVSKA MITROVICA, Kosovo, Feb. 29 (UPI) -- Security officials gathered in Kosovska Mitrovica, Kosovo, as a nine-day demonstration to support Serbian judicial employees continued, a report said.

As armed Kosovo Force officers gathered near court gates, protesters also increased their numbers and continued lending support to Serbian prosecutors, judges and other judicial staff members who were discharged in August 1999 as Kosovo strived for its independence, B92 reported Friday.

"We don't want animosity, but our patience is running out. We don't want these violent methods, but if we're forced to, we have to defend ourselves," a protester said.

Serbian Religion Minister Radomir Naumov reportedly gave her support to the cause while passing through the city. She said Serbia would not recognize Kosovo independently.

Taxi drivers also reportedly lent their support by sporting Serbian flags on their cars.