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Italian Man Probed in Sarajevo 'Sniper Tourism'
4 Feb
Summary
- An 80-year-old Italian man is under investigation for alleged 'sniper tourism'.
- Prosecutors examine claims foreigners paid to shoot civilians during the 1990s war.
- The probe was inspired by a journalist's legal complaint and a recent documentary.
An 80-year-old former truck driver from Italy is under investigation by Milan prosecutors as part of an inquiry into alleged "sniper tourism" during the 1990s siege of Sarajevo. This is the first individual identified in an investigation that commenced last year.
Prosecutors are examining allegations that foreigners were paid to shoot civilians in Bosnia's capital during the war three decades ago. The man faces charges of premeditated murder, aggravated by base motives, though it remains unclear if he is suspected of direct killings or facilitation.
The investigation was launched in November 2025 after journalist Ezio Gavazzeni filed a complaint. Gavazzeni was inspired by the 2022 documentary "Sarajevo Safari," which alleged wealthy foreigners paid significant sums to participate in shooting excursions, escorted by Bosnian Serb forces.
Approximately 11,000 civilians were killed during the 1992-95 war. The Italian investigation has raised hopes among survivors for accountability.
