Ljubinac: “I had no power over others’ lives”

Radisav Ljubinac, who is charged with war crimes against civilians from the territory of Rogatica, has testified in his own defence.

According to the indictment, Ljubinac took part in the attack and expulsion of locals from Seljani village, some of whom are still missing. It is alleged that on June 3, 1992 Ljubinac took part in the detention of civilians, separation of women and children from the men, and the taking away of 15 civilians who were later killed.

Remains of those who were murdered were later found in a mass grave in Dizdareva njiva, close to the indictee’s house.

The Prosecution also believes that on August 15, 1992 the indictee took 27 detainees from the camp to Jacen hill, on the frontline, where they were first lined up as a human shield and later executed.

The Defence denies that Ljubinac committed the crimes consciously and that he had decision-making power, and claim that the indictee’s alcoholism could affect his accountability.

In response to questions from defence attorney Senadin Bektasevic, Ljubinac said that he has been an alcoholic since he was 15 years old, but has never received treatment for the disease. He also said that he had lost several jobs because of his drink problem.

“If it’s beer, I’d drink a crate every day. If it’s something stronger, one litre or a litre and a half,” Ljubinac said in response to a question about how much alcohol he consumed daily during the period mentioned in the indictment.

Ljubinac said during cross-examination that during the war he did not have the power to make decisions about anyone’s life.

Prosecutor Mirsad Strika presented to the indictee an Army of Republika Srpska document according to which in 1994 it was proposed to promote Ljubinac to rank of first class sergeant and noting that “Ljubinac also has credit for engagement in Borovo before the war”. The indictee said that he has no knowledge of these statements.

The next hearing is scheduled for February 7, when medical expert Dr Abdulah Kucukalic will testify and the Prosecution will give its closing arguments.