The High Representative, Paddy Ashdown, on Wednesday expressed his horror at the multiple murder perpetrated in the village of Kostajnica, Konjic Municipality, on Tuesday evening. “The fatal shooting of three members of the Andjelic family in their own home, and the wounding of a fourth family member, is profoundly shocking,” the High Representative said. “I condemn it unreservedly and extend my sympathies to the family and friends of the victims.” The High Representative noted with appreciation that Herzegovina-Neretva Canton Deputy Governor Sefkija Dziho, Konjic Mayor Emir Bubalo, Neretvica Local Community President Enver Mujala, and Konjic Imam Naziv ef. Garib have all condemned this murder, and FBiH President Safet Halilovic has called on the police to launch a vigorous investigation. “The rule of law is the only foundation on which a peaceful and democratic Bosnia and Herzegovina can be built,” the High Representative said. “We do not yet know the full details in this tragic case. But no one should be in any doubt that the International Community will insist, together with the BiH authorities, that the strongest action is taken against anyone who commits crimes against individuals or against groups of citizens in this country. The perpetrators of this barbaric act must be found and brought to justice.”
12/26/2002