Sarajevo police officers suspended after arrests on sexual abuse charges

Prime Minister Nihad Uk and Interior Minister Admir Katica confirmed that both officers were immediately suspended, despite the investigation being in its early phase. They added that the victims are safe and under the care of the Sarajevo Centre for Social Work.

Uk said the government received full reports from police and prosecutors, emphasising transparency and accountability. “The system reacted promptly, officers from the Trnovo and Novo Sarajevo precincts were arrested by their own colleagues,” Uk said, adding that any failures in procedure would be investigated.

Minister Katica stated that the officers’ arrest followed “prompt action” by the police and prosecution, stressing that the law on the protection of minors must be respected. He clarified that the Sarajevo case is unrelated to a recent child abuse scandal in Tuzla.

A press conference by the police commissioner and chief prosecutor is scheduled for Monday, where more details, including possibly the officers’ names, are expected to be disclosed.