Djukic: Material evidence presentation

Towards the end of the evidence presentation by the State Prosecution, Prosecutor Mirsad Strika presented a large number of pieces of material evidence pertaining to the victims, who were killed at Kapija in Tuzla on May 25, 1995.

The Prosecution of Bosnia and Herzegovina charges Novak Djukic, former commander of the Ozren Tactical Group with the Republika Srpska Army, VRS, with the shelling of Tuzla in May 1995, when 71 persons were killed and more than 200 were wounded.

The indictment alleges that Djukic ordered a subordinate artillery squad, which was located on mount Ozren, to shell Tuzla, using M46 cannons. One artillery projectile hit the downtown area, known as Kapija, where a large number of people were killed, “following a powerful explosion”.

The State Court admitted medical documents pertaining to 71 killed persons and documents referring to injured persons. Among other pieces of material evidence, which were presented at this hearing, were the lists of people, who were killed and wounded at Kapija. These lists were made by an investigative judge of the Higher Court in Tuzla. As indicated by the Prosecutor, the lists were used for the preparation of the indictment against Djukic. The Prosecution also presented photographs taken at the location, where the mortar hit the ground.

At this hearing, the Trial Chamber once again reminded both parties that it had not rendered a decision concerning the Defence’s proposal to release Djukic on bail, adding that “the indictee’s family members are still being checked”. Trial Chamber Chairman Darko Samardzic reminded both parties that “the custody justification control is approaching”, adding that he expected them to “pronounce themselves upon it”.

The trial is due to continue on October 28, when the Prosecution will continue presenting material evidence.