Tuzla Court confirms indictment against seven in fatal pensioner home fire

The Cantonal Court in Tuzla has confirmed an indictment against seven individuals in connection with a fatal fire at the Tuzla Pensioner Home that occurred on November 4, 2025.

The defendants include former director Mirsad Bakalović, Zinaida Razić Halilović (head of economic, financial, accounting, and general affairs), and Mustafa Azabagić (fire protection and occupational safety officer). Additionally, three professionals from the company ‘Inproz’ Tuzla—Nedim Džambić, Mirsad Zukančić, and Jasmin Softić—are charged regarding a 2021 fire vulnerability assessment. Ibrahim Sarajlić, a fire protection inspector from the Cantonal Civil Protection Administration, is also included in the indictment.

The accused are charged with serious crimes against public safety and property, specifically causing general danger. Bakalović faces additional charges for abuse of position and authority. The prosecution alleges that between April 2021 and November 2025, the defendants failed to implement or mandate required fire protection measures for a high-risk facility. These failures are linked to the fire that resulted in the deaths of 15 residents and injuries to more than 30 people.