Secretary-General Welcomes Arrest of Goran Hadžić for Crimes Allegedly Committed

 

in Croatia, Saying Ending Impunity Is Crucial Step for Reconciliation in Region

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General welcomes today’s arrest of Goran Hadžić, who was sought by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) since 2004 for crimes against humanity and war crimes allegedly committed in Croatia in 1991 and 1992.  He commends President Boris Tadić and the Serbian authorities for their leadership in ending impunity for those indicted for serious violations of international humanitarian law.

Mr. Hadžić’s apprehension sends a powerful message that those who are alleged to have committed such crimes cannot evade justice and will be held accountable.  His arrest will allow the ICTY to focus on the completion of its mandate, given that Mr. Hadžić was the only remaining fugitive out of the 161 persons indicted by the ICTY.

The Secretary-General’s thoughts today are first and foremost with the victims of Mr. Hadžić’s alleged crimes, the victims of other serious international crimes, and their families.  Ending impunity is an essential step for reconciliation, sustainable peace and justice in the region.

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For information media • not an official record