In Kosovo, Hajla forms part of the 25 km (16 mi) long Rugova Canyon.

They would initially attempt to capture the village of Greater Shtupeç, where the 163rd "Rugova" brigade was located.

After some fighting, the first casualty of the 163rd Rugova brigade of the Kosovo War fell in battle, that being Xhavit Lajçi.

After further fighting the Yugoslav forces would advance in Hajla and would kill KLA fighter Ramush Lajçi.

His last words would be "Be careful" which he told his fellow soldiers which retreated back, as commander Selman Lajçi would die from his injury.