Turudić reveals DORH is working on major national security case

Chief State Attorney Ivan Turudić revealed that the State Attorney's Office (DORH) is currently working on a significant and complex case that touches upon national security. While he declined to provide further details due to the ongoing investigation, Turudić indicated that the case, initially not considered particularly promising, has become a matter of national security interest and is being pursued with intensity.

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I think the amount of the penalty is not decisive here. It is more important that the penalties are certain and fast. In our country, sanctions in both criminal and misdemeanor proceedings are not fast enough.

Turudić addressed several other pressing issues during an appearance on RTL Danas. Regarding incidents at the Varaždin and Hajduk football match, he suggested that stricter penalties are not the solution, emphasizing instead the need for swift and certain sanctions. He noted that penalties, particularly for misdemeanors, can sometimes expire due to delays in the legal process, recalling a decade-old fan conflict that may not have been prosecuted.

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It certainly can and does expire, especially if it concerns misdemeanors.

Concerning the club Hajduk, Turudić confirmed that the Office for the Suppression of Corruption and Organized Crime (USKOK) is conducting preliminary investigations, describing it as a standard procedure to examine potential irregularities. He also commented on the case of Vedran Pavlek, who is resisting extradition to Croatia from Kazakhstan. Turudić expressed optimism that the extradition will occur in due course, dismissing speculation about Pavlek potentially acquiring Kazakh citizenship altering the outcome.

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In the beginning, it was not particularly promising, as we say, and national security is involved in it. Very intensive work is being done on it. We don't know what tomorrow brings.

Furthermore, Turudić discussed the investigation into illegal waste disposal in Lika, stating that a comprehensive geotechnical assessment has been completed. The findings, he reported, are "not great" and indicate pollution in the area. He believes the public has a right to know the extent of the contamination, suggesting the case warrants public disclosure due to its significant interest. He also confirmed ongoing checks into the Rijeka hotel Costabella case, specifically regarding charges for beach access over disputed land, and affirmed DORH's cooperation with the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO).

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I am optimistic. I think it will happen in the foreseeable future.