Slovenian businessman with past convictions piloted military-style boat in Brijuni

Croatian police are investigating a military-style speedboat that was spotted in the waters of Brijuni National Park, with the vessel piloted by a Slovenian businessman who has a history of economic crime convictions.

The speedboat, an M46 model designed for military and special purposes, was observed by police on August 27. Authorities have clarified that the vessel is privately owned and registered in Croatia, though it was not displaying its registration marks. Police emphasized that no security incident occurred, as no protected individuals were present at the time of the boat's arrival.

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The M46 is designed for military and special purposes, which is why it can give the impression of being an official military vessel.

The pilot has been identified as 57-year-old Kristijan Gnilšak, a Slovenian businessman and former lawyer. In 2019, Gnilšak was convicted in Slovenia for economic crimes and sentenced to two and a half years in prison. He was also ordered to return 350,000 euros in unlawfully acquired assets.

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The specific speedboat spotted in Brijuni, however, never belonged to the Croatian Army or police, but is a private vessel.

Further complicating the situation, the M46 speedboat was developed by private companies linked to former high-ranking Croatian military officers. While the specific vessel found in Brijuni has never belonged to the Croatian Army or police, it is believed to be a prototype. The manufacturer, Olimp Nautika, has a history of supplying vessels to the Croatian Coast Guard.

Despite initial reports of potential misrepresentation regarding the boat's mooring, police stated that Gnilšak did not impersonate anyone or provide false information about its use. However, a criminal investigation is ongoing to ascertain all circumstances surrounding the event, including allegations of potential wrongdoing.

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The penal system is an ambitious topic, fraught with many risks for any state government.