Three sentenced to 15.5 years for 36 robberies in Zagreb

Three defendants were handed a combined sentence of 15.5 years in prison for 36 robberies committed in Zagreb between mid-October and early December 2024. The judge, Vjeran Blažeković, noted their confessions and remorse as mitigating factors, while acknowledging their prior convictions as aggravating.

Ardit Salihi and Albert Memeti each received seven-year sentences and will remain in custody. Aleksandro Horvat, who was implicated in one robbery, was sentenced to 1.5 years but will also remain detained due to a separate crime committed while in custody.

The robberies targeted Bolt and Uber taxi drivers, sports betting shops, and a Croatian Lottery branch. Some taxi drivers were assaulted, and threats were made with knives and clubs. The court ordered the confiscation of over 11,000 euros in illicit gains from Salihi and Memeti, who must also jointly return approximately 27,000 euros to victims.

Horvat's illicit gains of over 5,700 euros were also confiscated. The judge urged the young men to use their sentences as an opportunity to reform, emphasizing their potential for a future after serving their time.