Italy Investigates Sarajevo ‘Sniper Safaris’: Details and Key Figures Unveiled
Italy’s public prosecutor’s office is currently investigating accusations that groups of Italians participated in “sniper safaris” targeting civilians in Sarajevo during the city’s siege from 1992 to 1996. This conflict, which resulted in over 11,000 deaths, included a horrifying practice that involved wealthy Italian gun enthusiasts traveling to Bosnia to engage in shooting at vulnerable populations.
Key Details of the Investigation
The inquiry is being led by prosecutor Alessandro Gobbis in Milan after journalist Ezio Gavazzeni, alongside lawyers Nicola Brigida and Guido Salvini, filed a legal complaint. This complaint alleges “murder aggravated by cruelty and despicable motives” against those involved in organizing these trips. Early reports indicate that investigators aim to identify both those who participated and other implicated individuals.
Structure of the Sniper Safaris
- Participants allegedly gathered in Trieste, Italy each Friday, preparing for a weekend of hunting.
- Trips were reportedly organized with the involvement of Serbian militias.
- Individuals were flown to locations near Sarajevo to engage in shootings for a fee reached up to 100,000 euros.
Participants were purportedly provided with a price list for different targets. Reports suggest children were the most expensive targets, followed by men and women, with elderly individuals offered “free kills.”
Background of the Siege and Allegations
During the longest modern siege of a city, citizens of Sarajevo faced severe threats, and the Italian military intelligence agency, Sismi, had prior knowledge of these activities but reportedly failed to take adequate action. Gavazzeni’s extensive documentation includes testimonies indicating that flights between Italy and Sarajevo were coordinated, pointing to the Serbian State Security Service’s involvement.
Reactions from Survivors and Officials
Survivors of the siege have expressed outrage. Dzemil Hodzic, who experienced the siege firsthand, noted that such information about “tourist shooters” was always circulating within the besieged city. He hopes the recent investigations will yield results, highlighting the need for justice.
International Implications
Though the focus is on Italian nationals, it has been reported that individuals from multiple countries, including Russia and the United States, may also have participated in these sniper activities. Notably, Russian political figure Eduard Limonov was documented engaging in sniper activities alongside Bosnian Serb leaders.
As the investigation unfolds, the Italian government and Bosnian officials are cooperating, with calls for accountability growing stronger. The inquiry seeks to bring to light these grotesque acts that have long remained shrouded in secrecy within the narrative of the Bosnian war.
