New semi-open prison opened on Igman

(Patria) - A newly built prison complex of the semi-open type Sarajevo Correctional Facility (KPZ) was officially opened on the Igman mountain today.

At the opening ceremony of the complex, it was emphasized that the new facility significantly improves the capacities of the BiH judicial system.

With the opening of Facility C of the detention unit, the service building, and the administration building, the entire prison complex in Blažuj has been put into full operation.

The new facilities cover 4,500 square meters and are characterized by high energy efficiency and state-of-the-art security systems for access control and fire alarms.

The opening ceremony was attended by the Federal Minister of Internal Affairs Ramo Isak, representatives of the EU Delegation, and numerous guests from the political, judicial, and security sectors.

The Director of KPZ Sarajevo, Munib Isaković, emphasized that the project began in 2021, and an occupancy permit was obtained at the beginning of 2026.

- Today, we are putting into use the remaining part of Facility C with a capacity of 150 persons, the service building, the internal road, and public lighting. A total of KM 20,964,053 was spent.

By implementing this project, we are sending a message of general prevention in the fight against all forms of crime, ensuring humane treatment of detainees and a safe working environment for employees - said Isaković.

The construction of the complex was financed by joint funds from domestic institutions and international partners.

The Government of the Federation of BiH allocated KM 11,811,053 through the budget of KPZ Sarajevo, while the EU provided KM 9,153,000 through IPA funds, which was directed towards the construction of facilities, design, supervision, and digitalization.

Magdalena Mueller-Uri, Head of the Cooperation Department at the EU Delegation to BiH, says that this facility represents a turning point for the rule of law.

- This facility will directly strengthen the capacities of the judicial system. Secure detention is a key prerequisite for the effective prosecution of serious crime, corruption, and terrorism.

EU support also included the construction of an operational model aligned with our standards, a modern monitoring system, and specialized vehicles - Mueller-Uri stated.

Today, we opened a new high-security detention complex on Igman, built with EU financial support.

🇪🇺 invested 9.5 million BAM in this modern facility. It is in line with European standards, & helps enhance #ruleoflaw & security in 🇧🇦.

We continue to be a loyal partner to BiH. pic.twitter.com/ytF24mMagr

— EU in Bosnia and Herzegovina (@eubih) May 13, 2026

She also added that BiH's European path is not possible without a strong and well-equipped rule of law system.

This investment has ensured the infrastructural and technical conditions for the effective implementation of criminal sanctions, thereby directly contributing to overall security in BiH.