Investigation into Alleged "Sniper Tourism" in Sarajevo

Italian prosecutors have launched an investigation into claims that wealthy tourists, referred to as "sniper tourists," paid substantial sums—reportedly between €80,000 ($92,800) and €100,000 ($116,000)—to shoot civilians during the siege of Sarajevo from 1992 to 1996. These allegations suggest that affluent gun enthusiasts, primarily from Italy, the United States, and other Western nations, engaged in what has been termed "human safari" experiences, targeting residents for sport.

The Siege of Sarajevo, lasting from 1992 to 1996, was marked by extensive violence, with over 10,000 civilians killed by sniper fire and shelling. The city became infamous for "Sniper Alley," where passersby were at constant risk of being shot. The investigation was prompted by a 17-page legal complaint filed by Italian writer Ezio Gavazzeni, who has been supported by former magistrate Guido Salvini and Benjamina Karic, the mayor of Sarajevo from 2021 to 2024.

Ezio Gavazzeni has emerged as a central figure in the investigation, having uncovered evidence and testimonies regarding the alleged sniper tourism. He claims that a former Bosnian intelligence officer and other witnesses, including victims and a firefighter, can provide crucial information. The Bosnian Consulate in Milan has pledged full cooperation with the investigation, emphasizing the need to confront this dark chapter in history.

Wealthy Tourists Allegedly Paid $90K for ‘Human Safari’ in Sarajevo

The allegations indicate that tourists would fly from Trieste to Belgrade on the Serbian airline Aviogenex before traveling to the hills surrounding Sarajevo. From these vantage points, they allegedly shot at civilians below, with additional fees for targeting children. Gavazzeni estimates that around 100 tourists may have participated in these activities, which he describes as devoid of political or religious motivations, driven instead by a desire for thrill and personal satisfaction.

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The Bosnian government has expressed its commitment to cooperating fully with the investigation. A spokesperson stated, “We are eager to uncover the truth about such a cruel matter and settle accounts with the past.” The Milan Attorney General’s Office is actively pursuing leads and has a list of potential witnesses who may be called to testify.

Despite the serious nature of these allegations, there has been skepticism regarding the feasibility of prosecuting such cases, particularly in a country still grappling with the aftermath of war. Gavazzeni noted that a previous investigation by the Bosnian Attorney General’s Office was shelved due to the complexities involved. He remarked, “They left Trieste for a manhunt and then returned to their respectable daily lives.”

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While the investigation is ongoing, there are discrepancies regarding the number of tourists involved and the extent of their actions. Some reports suggest that the allegations may be exaggerated or dismissed as urban legends by Serbian authorities. The challenge remains in substantiating the claims with concrete evidence.

Wealthy Tourists Allegedly Paid $90K for ‘Human Safari’ in Sarajevo

The investigation is expected to continue as prosecutors seek to identify and interview witnesses. Gavazzeni hopes that the inquiry will lead to the discovery of at least a few individuals who participated in these alleged activities, potentially shedding light on a grim aspect of the Bosnian War.

Wealthy Tourists Allegedly Paid $90K for ‘Human Safari’ in Sarajevo

• “We are eager to uncover the truth about such a cruel matter and settle accounts with the past.” — Dag Dumrukcic, Bosnian Consul in Milan

• “They left Trieste for a manhunt and then returned to their respectable daily lives.” — Ezio Gavazzeni, Investigative Writer

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