Busnov Testifies on Treatment of Serb Detainees in Stupari

Testifying in his own defense, Busnov said he was Safet Mujcinovic’s superior and monitored his work in the Kladanj police force in 1992.

Busnov and Mujcinovic are facing trial with Nedzad Hodzic, Selman Busnov, Nusret Muhic, Zijad Hamzic, Ramiz Halilovic, Osman Gogic and Kahro Vejzovic, former members of civil and military police, as well as the Territorial Defense. They have all been charged with war crimes in the Kladanj area, which include the unlawful detention of Serb civilians, as well as the assault and inhumane treatment of detainees.

According to the indictment, the Serb population from Stupari and the surrounding villages were unlawfully detained in a school building in Stupari and then in educational workers’ buildings, where they were guarded by police in the summer of 1992. The indictment alleges that the civilians were detained in the educational workers’ buildings under the pretense of ensuring their safety.

On the third day of his testimony, Busnov told the state prosecution that he was the deputy commander of the Kladanj police station. He said due to the absence of their commander, he filled that role as well. He said he was officially appointed police commander in October 1992.

Busnov said he monitored Mujcinovic, the former commander of the police station in Stupari, which was under his jurisdiction, as well as other police officers in order to ensure they worked within the law.

Busnov said he wasn’t present when the Serb detainees were brought to Stupari. He said Mujcinovic informed him of their presence later on. Busnov said approximately 50 of the detainees had possessed illegal weapons.

He disagreed with prosecutor Vedrana Mijovic’s claim that police didn’t have an order to protect the buildings the Serb detainees were held in. Busnov said when the police wanted to stop providing protection to the buildings, the detainees themselves asked them to remain. He said civil authorities decided on the date of the detainees.

Busnov was also presented with documents that indicated he requested food for the detainees. With regards to defendant Ramiz Halilovic, Busnov said people thought that he gave too much assistance to the Serbs.

The trial will continue on September 4, when defendant Nusret Muhic is expected to testify.