Croatian police searched Stanivuković at the border, he also had to pay a 700 euro fine

(Patria) - Banja Luka Mayor Draško Stanivuković was detained today while crossing the border with Croatia, and on that occasion he also had to pay a 700 euro fine due to a recent speech held in Lika and Dalmatia.

In a video he posted on social media, Stanivuković claimed that, as a conscientious man and mayor, he paid the fine, respecting Croatian laws.

- However, that is not the reason for my address. The reason is that every time I pass through Croatia, the Croatian border police single me out and thoroughly search my car, as well as all the items in my suitcase.

And not just once, but on every entry and exit from the country, and so every time since I gave that speech. They have also identified my friends and associates who have been with me in those regions over the past year.

The question arises as to what message is being sent - is it meant to say how Serbs fare in Croatia when they express views on certain issues from the past, or that they are simply not welcome?

Because of the responsibility I have and the future I look toward, I will certainly not respond in the same way. As mayor, I will seek an answer from the Croatian Consulate in Banja Luka, the Government of the Republic of Croatia, and the Croatian police as to why this is being done and what kind of message it is?

I am sure there is no reason for such treatment, not only towards me and my associates, but towards anyone - said Stanivuković.

He adds that "Banja Luka will never reciprocate with such reciprocity, because it is an open city that respects others."

Let us recall, speaking at the Saint Sava Academy in Gračac, Stanivuković talked about "Operation Storm," "Operation Flash," and the so-called "Republic of Serbian Krajina."

- So that we know our roots, so that a child born today in Banja Luka never forgets the Republic of Serbian Krajina, never forgets 'Operation Storm' and those difficult days.

So that we know how much our people suffered here and how difficult and challenging life is here, and how important it is that you are here today - Stanivuković stated then.