North Macedonia marks 25 years since Ljubotenski Bacila massacre

North Macedonia is observing the 25th anniversary of the Ljubotenski Bacila massacre, a significant event during the 2001 armed conflict. On August 10, 2001, an army transport vehicle struck landmines, resulting in the deaths of eight reserve army members: Tome Badarovski, Goce Čankulovski, Branko Janev, Tomislav Nastevski, Marjančo Boškovski, Ivica Zlatevski, Tome Dimovski, and Rade Jankovski.

Official commemorations are being held across several locations, including Gjorce Petrov, Volkovo, Ljubanci, and the Ilinden barracks. A delegation from the Army General Staff and the Ministry of Defense, led by Major General Saško Lafčiski, is participating in the ceremonies. Government officials, including Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski and various ministers, have expressed their respect for the fallen defenders, noting that their sacrifice serves as a reminder of the cost of peace and security.

The ceremonies also honor Aco Angelovski, a police officer who died in Aracinovo in 2000 during an armed attack. Local leaders and veterans' associations are participating in the tributes to ensure the memory of the fallen is passed to future generations.