Italy Investigates Allegations of Tourists Paying to Kill Civilians in Bosnia
Italian authorities have launched an investigation into disturbing allegations that wealthy individuals, including Italians, paid to participate in “sniper safaris” during the Bosnian War in the early 1990s. The probe, initiated by the public prosecutor’s office in Milan, centers on claims that these individuals paid substantial sums to shoot at civilians in the besieged city of Sarajevo from Serb-held positions in the surrounding hills. These allegations, if proven true, represent a horrific chapter in the already devastating conflict.
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The Allegations: A “Manhunt” in Sarajevo
The investigation stems from a complaint filed by Italian journalist and novelist Ezio Gavazzeni, who describes the alleged activity as a “manhunt” orchestrated by “very wealthy people” with a fascination for weapons. These individuals purportedly paid for the opportunity to kill defenseless civilians in Sarajevo. According to some reports, different rates were allegedly charged based on the intended target – men, women, or children – adding a chilling layer of depravity to the accusations.
Gavazzeni’s complaint includes testimony from a Bosnian military intelligence officer, suggesting that Bosnian authorities became aware of these “safaris” in late 1993. The information was reportedly passed on to Italy’s Sismi military intelligence in early 1994. The alleged response from Sismi indicated that they were aware of the “safari” tourists arriving from Trieste and travelling to the hills overlooking Sarajevo. The Bosnian officer claims they were assured that the activity had been stopped within a few months.
The Source Material: Unearthing a Dark History
Gavazzeni’s investigation was spurred by a combination of factors, including a 30-year-old report in the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera and the 2022 documentary film “Sarajevo Safari” by Slovenian director Miran Zupanic. The documentary alleges that individuals from various countries, including the United States, Russia, and Italy, were involved in the killings. Gavazzeni’s research culminated in a 17-page file submitted to prosecutors, including a report by former Sarajevo mayor Benjamina Karic.
The Scope of the Investigation and Potential Consequences
The Milan prosecutors are treating the allegations with utmost seriousness, investigating the claims as potential cases of murder. They are reportedly identifying and contacting potential witnesses to establish the identities of those who may have been involved. Speaking to Italy’s La Repubblica newspaper, Gavazzeni alleged that “many” individuals participated, potentially “at least a hundred,” with Italians allegedly paying up to €100,000 (approximately £88,000 in today’s terms) for the experience.
The investigation highlights the complexities of pursuing justice for war crimes and the enduring impact of the Bosnian War. The fact that such allegations are being taken seriously decades after the conflict underscores the importance of accountability and the need to uncover the truth, no matter how disturbing. The investigation in Bosnia itself appears to have stalled, making the Italian probe all the more crucial.
Echoes of War Tourism: A Disturbing Precedent
The allegations of “sniper safaris” in Sarajevo are not entirely isolated incidents in the context of conflict. The article references an instance of late Russian nationalist writer and politician Eduard Limonov firing a heavy machine gun into Sarajevo while being given a tour by Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadzic. While Limonov’s actions were not driven by financial gain, they illustrate a disturbing trend of individuals seeking to experience war firsthand, often with devastating consequences.
Challenges and the Pursuit of Justice
The investigation faces significant challenges, including the passage of time, the difficulty of gathering evidence from a war zone, and the potential for witnesses to be deceased or unwilling to cooperate. The alleged involvement of intelligence agencies adds another layer of complexity. However, the commitment of the Milan prosecutors to pursuing the truth offers a glimmer of hope for justice for the victims of the Sarajevo siege.
The probe serves as a reminder of the brutal realities of the Bosnian War and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their wealth or influence. The outcome of the investigation will have significant implications for the victims of the siege and for the broader pursuit of justice for war crimes.
Conclusion
The Italian investigation into allegations of tourists paying to kill civilians in Bosnia represents a crucial step in uncovering a potentially horrific chapter of the Bosnian War. While the challenges are significant, the pursuit of justice for the victims of the siege is paramount. The investigation will not only seek to hold individuals accountable for their alleged actions but also serve as a reminder of the devastating consequences of war and the importance of upholding international law and human rights.
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