Key Facts
• In the early 1990s, some Italians allegedly paid large sums for ‘sniper safari’ tours.
• Participants reportedly targeted civilians in Sarajevo during the Bosnian War.
• Journalist Ezio Gavazzoni brought forward new evidence, prompting Milan prosecutors to investigate.
• Allegations include different fees for shooting men, women, and children.
• The Bosnian War (1992–1995) resulted in over 11,000 civilian deaths in Sarajevo.
• Italian military intelligence (SISMI) was informed of the tours in 1994 and later claimed to have stopped them.
• A 2022 documentary, Sarajevo Safari, reignited interest in the allegations.
• Gavazzoni submitted a 17-page report to prosecutors in February 2025.
• The tours reportedly involved at least 100 participants, with fees reaching €100,000.
• British soldiers stationed in Sarajevo during the war dismissed the claims as a ‘myth.’
Summary
Italian authorities are investigating claims that wealthy individuals participated in ‘sniper safari’ tours during the Bosnian War, paying to shoot civilians in Sarajevo. Journalist Ezio Gavazzoni uncovered evidence, including testimony from a Bosnian military officer, suggesting that these tours were organized in the early 1990s. Participants allegedly paid up to €100,000 for the experience, with fees varying based on the victim’s demographic. The tours reportedly ceased after Italian intelligence intervened in 1994. Interest in the allegations resurfaced following the 2022 documentary Sarajevo Safari. While some evidence has been presented, British soldiers stationed in Sarajevo during the war have dismissed the claims as implausible. Investigations are ongoing, with Italian prosecutors working to identify those involved.
