Prosecution seeks extended detention for Polish national in Međugorje arson case

The State Prosecutor's Office has requested the extension of detention for Polish citizen Bartłomiej Włodzimierz Krakowiak following the confirmation of an indictment regarding the damage of religious sites in Međugorje.

Prosecutor Nives Kanevčev argued that evidence indicates a flight risk and a likelihood that the accused would repeat the crime if released. The prosecution noted that the defendant has shown no remorse for his actions and that the incident was carried out with prior preparation.

The indictment alleges that during the night of July 27–28, the accused attempted to set fire to the external altar of St. James Church in the Čitluk municipality. After an initial failed attempt to ignite a non-flammable material on the altar's roof structure, he allegedly poured gasoline over the altar's inventory and ignited it with an open flame. The resulting fire caused material damage estimated at 130,767.71 KM. In addition to property damage, the accused faces charges related to inciting ethnic, racial, and religious hatred, as well as endangering public safety and property.