The KLA, led by Commander Shkëlzen Haradinaj, was engaged in efforts to protect civilians in the Deçan region.

On April 16, 1999, Haradinaj's unit was ambushed by Serbian forces near the village of Maznik.

[3] Despite efforts to defend against the Yugoslav forces, Haradinaj and his comrades were killed in the battle.

[4][5][6] Following the battle, Yugoslav forces maintained control over the Maznik region.

The engagement is commemorated in Kosovo as a moment of sacrifice for KLA fighters.