Indictee Ivan Ancic Fails to Appear at Plea Hearing

Ivan Ancic has not come from Croatia to the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina, BiH, in order to enter his plea to the charges that he committed crimes in the “Dretelj” detention camp, near Capljina, in the summer of 1993.

Judge Zoran Bozic said that a letter received from “Primorac and Partners” attorney office indicated that Ancic had health problems and that his medical treatment would last until October 24.

Due to the fact that the indictee, who has Croatian citizenship and lives in Split, did not appear, the hearing was postponed until November 5.

According to the State Prosecution’s charges, Ancic was Manager of the “Dretelj” detention camp and Commander of the “Dretelj” military barracks. The indictment alleges that, thanks to his position, he was superior to guards, military policemen and other members of the Croatian Defence Council, HVO.

“He had full control over the conditions in Dretelj detention camp and lives of about 2,000 Bosniak civilians,” the indictment further alleges.

The Prosecution of BiH alleges that Ancic fostered and assisted in the commission of murders and torture of detainees as well as other inhumane acts.