Criminal investigations in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina

Authorities in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina continue to manage multiple criminal investigations involving organized crime, war crimes, and security threats.

In Serbia, the Subotica Higher Public Prosecutor's Office is investigating seven individuals suspected of being part of an organized crime group involved in the illegal manufacture, possession, and transport of weapons, explosives, and drones. This investigation is linked to the discovery of explosives near the Serbia-Hungary gas pipeline in April. Security agencies believe the group stored equipment in Serbia for transport to various European Union member states.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the State Court has issued warrants for over 60 individuals accused or convicted of war crimes, noting that many suspects remain at large due to extradition challenges or the refusal of home countries to extradite citizens. A significant indictment has been filed against six individuals for their roles in a criminal enterprise that unlawfully detained and tortured thousands of non-Serb civilians in camps such as Sanski Most and Manjača, leading to at least 40 deaths and forced deportations.

Additionally, the Prosecutor's Office of Bosnia and Herzegovina has received thousands of citizen reports concerning the glorification of convicted war criminal Ratko Mladić on social media and in public discourse following his death in The Hague. These reports include allegations against political figures for violating laws against celebrating convicted war criminals.

Separately, Serbian authorities in Belgrade have interrogated three suspects regarding the kidnapping of five Afghan and Turkish nationals for ransom.