General Ramiz Drekovic, former ARBiH 5th Corps commander, dies at the age of 70

Retired ARBiH General Nedzad Ajnadzic confirmed the news to FENA and wrote on social media that General Drekovic was an honorable son of his people, a devoted husband and father, and a great patriot.

"He loved his hometown, but he loved Bosnia and Herzegovina just as sincerely. He was ready to give everything for Bihac, Herzegovina and all of Bosnia and Herzegovina. May Almighty Allah grant him Jannah, forgive his sins and reward him for everything he did. I extend my sincere condolences to his family, friends and all those mourning his death. Your name and legacy will remain written in the history of Bosnia and Herzegovina and in the memory of those who value freedom," Ajnadzic wrote.

Drekovic had been hospitalized due to deteriorating health, but despite doctors’ efforts, he died this morning.

Ramiz Drekovic was born on May 10, 1956, in the village of Vesenici near Tutin. He graduated from the Military Academy of Armored and Mechanized Units in Banja Luka in 1980. He left the Yugoslav People's Army (JNA) in September 1991 with the rank of captain first class.

In early 1992, he commanded the Territorial Defense Municipal Headquarters in Bihac, and subsequently the Una-Sana Operational Group.

When the 5th Corps was established on October 21, 1992, he was appointed its commander. He remained in that position until November 1, 1993, when he became commander of the 4th Corps of the ARBiH.

From 2019 to 2023, Drekovic stood trial on war crimes charges related to the indiscriminate shelling of the Kalinovik area. In November 2023, he was acquitted of the charges in a final ruling.