Ljubomir Mitev acquitted of killing robber in North Macedonia self-defense case

Ljubomir Mitev, a resident of Kojkovo near Kratovo, North Macedonia, has been acquitted of charges related to the killing of a robber during a 2013 home invasion. The verdict concludes a lengthy legal process regarding an incident where Mitev and his wife were subjected to hours of torture by two intruders, Zoran Zlatkov and Borčo Ivanov.

During the robbery, the attackers physically assaulted Mitev and his wife in an attempt to locate valuables. While the attackers were searching the house, Mitev managed to reach a hunting rifle in his basement. He used the weapon to kill Zlatkov and wound Ivanov in an effort to protect his life and his wife.

Although the surviving attacker was sentenced to eight years in prison for the robbery, Mitev faced murder and illegal firearm possession charges starting in 2015. The prosecution's decision sparked significant public outcry across North Macedonia, with many citizens supporting Mitev's right to defend his home and family.