Serbia’s acting Minister of Internal Affairs, Ivica Dačić, stated on Tuesday that Serbia’s intervention has prevented the Interpol arrest warrants for Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik and National Assembly Speaker Nenad Stevandić from becoming enforceable, reports RFE.
According to Dačić, this move has ensured the safety of Serbian citizens, referring to Dodik and Stevandić, who hold dual citizenship.
Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Request for Interpol Red Notices
On March 27, the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina formally requested Interpol to issue a Red Notice for Dodik and Stevandić on charges of “attacking the constitutional order of Bosnia and Herzegovina.”
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In response, Serbia lodged a formal protest with Interpol, arguing that issuing such notices violates Interpol’s statute, which prohibits involvement in cases with political, military, religious, or racial motives.
On March 27, Dačić also stated that since Dodik and Stevandić are Serbian citizens, the international arrest warrants requested by Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) do not meet legal requirements for enforcement.
Current Status of the Arrest Warrants
According to Dačić’s April 1 statement, the Interpol request is currently under preliminary review by the Interpol Notices and Diffusions Task Force (NDTF), which is assessing its compliance with Interpol’s rules and statute.
The final decision will be made by the Commission for the Control of Interpol’s Files (CCF), which meets at least three times a year. The next session is scheduled between April 7 and 11.
Serbia’s Position on the Case
The Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs stated that while Serbia respects international institutions and legal frameworks, it will not compromise on protecting the rights and interests of its citizens.
“Serbia remains committed to this process and will actively participate at every step to ensure a decision that upholds the rights of our citizens, justice, and the rule of law,” the statement concluded.
