A chilling investigation has been launched in Italy into allegations that wealthy individuals paid to participate in “sniper safaris” during the Bosnian War in the early 1990s. The claims suggest that these individuals, including Italians, paid Bosnian Serb soldiers for the opportunity to shoot at civilians in the besieged city of Sarajevo.
The investigation, led by Milan prosecutor Alessandro Gobbis, was sparked by a legal complaint filed by journalist and novelist Ezio Gavazzeni. Gavazzeni alleges that groups of individuals paid large sums to target defenceless civilians from Serb positions in the hills surrounding Sarajevo. Reports even suggest that different rates were charged based on the target – men, women, or children.
Sarajevo endured a brutal four-year siege, during which more than 11,000 people were killed by constant shelling and sniper fire. The city was surrounded by Serb forces, making civilians extremely vulnerable. The alleged “sniper safaris” represent a particularly gruesome aspect of the conflict.
According to reports, a Bosnian military intelligence officer revealed that Bosnian colleagues learned of the “safaris” in late 1993 and passed the information to Italian intelligence in early 1994. Allegedly, the “safari” tourists would fly from Trieste, Italy, and then travel to the hills above Sarajevo.
The Horrors of Sniper Alley
Sarajevo, nestled in a basin surrounded by mountains, was easily cut off and attacked. Snipers became a terrifying element of daily life, randomly targeting people on the streets, including children. This investigation seeks to bring justice for the victims of this horrific conflict and expose those who allegedly participated in these abhorrent acts.
What's Next?
Italian authorities are now working to identify those involved in these alleged “sniper safaris.” The investigation aims to uncover the truth behind these disturbing allegations and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
- The investigation focuses on identifying individuals who allegedly paid to participate in "sniper safaris."
- Authorities are examining evidence gathered by journalist Ezio Gavazzeni.
- The probe seeks to bring justice to the victims of the Bosnian War.