Service for Foreigners' Affairs uncovers 42 illegal migrants and cross-border crime

During an inspection of a residential building used for the illegal accommodation of migrants, authorities found 34 foreign nationals: 21 citizens of Bangladesh, 10 citizens of Pakistan, and three citizens of Nepal.

It was established that these individuals had illegally entered Bosnia and Herzegovina from Montenegro. As part of the operation, two Pakistani nationals were also identified as suspects in migrant smuggling.

An inspection of an illegal so-called ''wild hotel'' uncovered another eight foreign nationals without lawful residence in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

A Sudanese national holding a temporary residence permit in Romania had his visa-free stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina revoked, was issued an expulsion order, and was placed under supervision at the Immigration Center in East Sarajevo after authorities determined he was connected to cross-border criminal activities threatening public security.

Expulsion measures were also imposed on the two Pakistani nationals suspected of migrant smuggling, and they were likewise placed under supervision at the Immigration Center in East Sarajevo.

The remaining foreign nationals were transferred to the Temporary Reception Center Blazuj for further processing.

Misdemeanor sanctions were imposed on the owners of the properties, and legally prescribed measures within the jurisdiction of the Service for Foreigners' Affairs were undertaken, the Service said in a statement.