Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina confirms indictment over Medjugorje church arson and vandalism

According to the indictment, during the night of 27–28 July 2026 in the municipality of Citluk, Krakowiak prepared black paint, a brush, and black spray paint to deface Catholic religious symbols across Medjugorje. He allegedly wrote offensive messages and derogatory inscriptions in Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian, English, and Polish.

Prosecutors state that Krakowiak acted with full knowledge that publicly ridiculing these symbols would incite religious hatred, discord, and intolerance among the constituent peoples and communities in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, severely undermining the sanctity of the pilgrimage site and causing widespread distress among clergy and local believers.

Furthermore, Krakowiak is charged with attempting to burn down the outdoor altar of St James Church in Medjugorje at approximately 4:50 am on 28 July 2026. After an initial attempt to ignite the altar's roof structure failed because the fabric was fire-resistant, he poured petrol from a canister over the altar furnishings and set them alight. The resulting blaze caused extensive damage estimated at 130,767.71 Bosnian marks (approx. €66,860).

The Court of BiH confirmed charges against Krakowiak for inciting national, racial, or religious hatred under the Criminal Code of the Federation of BiH, damaging or destroying religious buildings under the Criminal Code of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and committing serious offences against public safety and property. All charges are being prosecuted cumulatively.