Zvonko Veselinovic, one of the most controversial figures for his influence in northern Kosovo and links to high political circles in Serbia, is reportedly leaving today towards Turkey, at a time when Serbian authorities are conducting arrests of businessmen and officials linked to the country’s political structures.
According to information published in Serbian media, Veselinovic allegedly travelled early in the morning from Sarajevo to Istanbul, using Serbia’s travel documents.
His reported departure comes at a significant moment, as acts of order bodies are under way in Serbia towards persons who have been linked to power circles and the Serbian Progressive Party ( SNS).
However, so far there is no official confirmation of whether Veselinovic’s trip relates to these developments, or whether any new investigative action has been taken against him.
Links to the Relatives of Vucinqi
Veselinovic has repeatedly been mentioned in reports of political and economic influence in northern Kosovo, but also about his relations with persons close to Serbian President Aleksandar Vuciq.
Among the names he is related to is Andrej Vuciq, brother of the Serbian president. Photos published over the years have both been presented at a meeting in Copaonic during 2015.
Veselinovic’s name has also been mentioned in communications published by the encrypted app ‘%sky’, where claims for influence have been made in appointments within Serbian police structures and in public contracts with huge financial assets.
These claims are part of reports and material published over the years and do not in themselves constitute judicial findings for criminal responsibility.
On a list of American and British sanctions
Zvonko Veselinovic is included in the US Treasury Department’s list of sanctions in December 2021, along with Milan Radojchicin, another figure known for his influence in northern Kosovo.
American authorities had blamed measures with alleged involvement in corruption and activities aimed at ensuring benefits through influence on officials and public institutions.
A year later, in December 2022, restrictive measures against Veselinovic also imposed the United Kingdom, under its regime of sanctions against serious corruption.
His name was mentioned in investigation into the murder of Oliver Ivanovic.
Veselinovic has been among the names mentioned over allegations of organised criminal activities in northern Kosovo.
In documents and previous reports, claims have been filed for involvement in smuggling, trafficking and other illegal activities.
His name has also been mentioned in the context of investigations into the murder of Kosovo Serb politician Oliver Ivanovic, who was shot dead in northern Mitrovica in January 2018.
However, his reference to these investigations does not imply that his criminal responsibility for the case has been proved by the tribunal.
News of Turkey’s reported departure comes in a period of important developments in Serbia, while it remains unclear whether travel is related to recent arrests or is about a common movement.
Source Layer: Signal