EU Police Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina - Shedding "Light" on Security Threats: Arrests in Wahhabi Settlement - 2 February 2010 In the largest joint operation yet, dubbed "Light", Bosnia and Herzegovina law enforcement agencies blocked and searched the Wahhabi settlement Gornja Maoča near Brčko, arresting seven persons suspected of posing a security threat to the country. A large quantity of weapons, as well as computers and documents were seized during the searches.
"Though it is an ongoing operation, I wish to commend the excellent cooperation of all law enforcement agencies on State, entity, cantonal level and the Brčko District, during today's operation in Brčko," said Stefan Feller, Head of the European Union Police Mission. "
More info... .jpg "credit EUPM BiH")
EU HR Javier Solana visits EUPM
The European Union Police Mission (EUPM) in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) started on 1 January 2003. It followed on from the UN's International Police Task Force. EUPM was the first ESDP mission launched by the EU. On 8 December 2009, the Council of the EU has decided to extend the operation until 31 December 2011.
In line with the general objectives of the Paris/Dayton Agreement, EUPM seeks to establish sustainable policing arrangements under BiH ownership in accordance with best European and international practice. It does so in particular through monitoring, mentoring and inspection activities. Following an invitation by the BiH authorities, EUPM supports the police reform process and continues to develop and consolidate local capacity and regional cooperation in the fight against major and organised crime.
The mission is headed by Brigadier General Stefan Feller.
On 17 November 2009, the Council welcomed the efforts carried out by EUPM to achieve its mandate and noted the important role played by the mission as part of the overall EU efforts to stabilise BiH with a view to its European perspective. It welcomed the support provided by the mission to BiH authorities in implementation of police reform; the fight against organised crime and corruption, including in high-level cases; and in improving the coordination between the police and the Judiciary.
The mission will contribute to the comprehensive enhanced EU engagement in BiH, as well as prepare for its reorganisation in line with its post-2009 mandate, refocused on the support to the combat against organised crime and corruption. EUPM will continue its close cooperation within the EU family, in particular with the
EUSR, EUFOR ALTHEA and the European Commission.