Goran Hadžić Granted Temporary Release Due to Illness

The Hague Tribunal decided today to urgently release Goran Hadžić, suspected of war crimes in eastern Slavonia from 1991 to 1993, on temporary release for health reasons, reports the BH news agency Patria.

Hadžić, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor in November 2014, must return to detention in The Hague in May, and until his return to custody he may stay in Novi Sad, Serbia, according to the published decision of the Appeals Chamber.

The text of the decision shows that in November 2014, doctors estimated that Hadžić, with such a diagnosis, had between 12 and 24 months to live.

Hadžić's lawyers requested temporary release on January 22, 2015, but the Trial Chamber of the court rejected that request on March 13.

Hadžić, however, appealed that decision, and the Appeals Chamber granted his request. The Chamber ordered that Hadžić be transferred to Serbia by plane as soon as possible and return to The Hague in May.