Pustivuk Ordered to be Detained

Acting on a motion filed by the State Prosecution, the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina has imprisoned Srpko Pustivuk, citing fears he might flee, that he may have committed war crimes against civilians and that he might disturb the proceedings by influencing witnesses and accomplices. 

“Besides that, the custody has been ordered due to the existence of extraordinary circumstances which indicate that the suspect’s release to liberty would result in a real threat to the public order, considering the way in which the crimes were committed and the consequences of the crimes,” says an announcement from the State Court. 

The State Investigation and Protection Agency, SIPA, arrested Pustivuk in Bijeljina on July 13. 

Prosecutors suspect that Pustivuk, a former member of the Interventions Squad with the Public Safety Station in Ilijas, participated in an attack against civilians in the village of Gornja Bioca, Ilijas municipality, in May and June 1992. Several people, including children, were killed. 

Pustivuk is also suspected of having arrested and captured Bosniak civilians who were then taken to detention camps and other detention facilities. 

His detention may last until August 13.