Milan prosecutors have kicked off a high-profile investigation into a disturbing and little-known chapter in Bosnia's devastating war - alleged "sniper tourism" involving wealthy Italian tourists who paid Bosnian Serb soldiers to target civilians. The probe, which began recently, centers around claims that these affluent travelers paid upwards of €80,000 to €100,000 to Bosnian Serb forces for a "sporting" shoot at civilian targets, with reports suggesting some payments were even higher for shooting children.
The investigation follows an alarming report that during the 1992-96 siege of Sarajevo, these Italian tourists allegedly paid members of the Army of Republika Srpska to engage in weekend sniper activities targeting civilians. The shocking claims highlight a previously unknown aspect of war tourism - one where combatants were exploited and financially rewarded for their involvement in killing innocent people.
This developing story raises serious questions about the exploitation of soldiers and civilians alike during times of conflict, as well as the dark side of high-society's relationship with violence.
The investigation follows an alarming report that during the 1992-96 siege of Sarajevo, these Italian tourists allegedly paid members of the Army of Republika Srpska to engage in weekend sniper activities targeting civilians. The shocking claims highlight a previously unknown aspect of war tourism - one where combatants were exploited and financially rewarded for their involvement in killing innocent people.
This developing story raises serious questions about the exploitation of soldiers and civilians alike during times of conflict, as well as the dark side of high-society's relationship with violence.