Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina – The State Investigation and Protection Agency (SIPA) started coordinated searches at six locations across the capital on Friday, November 4, 2026, following a directive from the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The operation, identified as “BIG,” targets alleged illegal trafficking, manufacturing, and distribution of narcotic substances.

According to a statement released by SIPA, the raids are being conducted under the supervision of the acting prosecutor of the BiH Prosecutor’s Office and in close collaboration with police officers from the Ministry of Interior of Sarajevo Canton. The agency cited “reasonable grounds” that criminal offenses involving prohibited drugs have been committed at the selected sites, although it did not specify the exact nature of the suspected activities.

The six premises, whose addresses have not been disclosed for security reasons, are currently being examined by specialized SIPA units. At the time of reporting, SIPA officials had not confirmed whether any individuals had been detained or whether any drugs, equipment, or financial assets had been seized during the searches.

The operation comes amid a broader wave of anti‑drug initiatives across Bosnia and Herzegovina, where authorities have repeatedly emphasized the need to disrupt organized criminal networks dealing in narcotics. In recent months, the country has seen several high‑profile police actions, including arrests in Banja Luka and the seizure of large quantities of illicit substances.

Legal experts note that the court order authorizing the searches reflects a growing willingness of the judiciary to empower investigative agencies in the fight against drug‑related crime. “When the evidence suggests coordinated activity, the courts can grant search warrants that allow agencies like SIPA to act swiftly and simultaneously across multiple sites,” said Dr. Amira Hadžić, a professor of criminal law at the University of Sarajevo.

SIPA has indicated that the operation will remain under the oversight of the prosecutor’s office to ensure procedural compliance and respect for civil liberties. The agency also promised to provide an update once the searches are concluded and any findings are formally documented.

Local residents near the targeted locations reported seeing police vehicles and officers entering buildings in the early afternoon, but no further details have emerged. Community leaders have called for transparency, urging authorities to communicate the outcomes of the operation to the public while maintaining the integrity of the investigation.

The ongoing raids underscore the continued challenges Bosnia and Herzegovina faces in curbing drug trafficking, a problem that has been linked to broader issues of corruption, money laundering, and cross‑border criminal networks. As the “BIG” operation proceeds, observers will be watching for any indications of larger syndicates operating within the Sarajevo metropolitan area.

Authorities have asked anyone with additional information about the suspected drug activities to contact SIPA directly or to submit tips through established hotlines. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling illicit drug markets and safeguarding public health and security.

Sources (learn more):

klix.ba — https://www.klix.ba/vijesti/bih/sipa-pretresa-sest-lokacija-u-sarajevu-sumnja-se-na-trgovinu-drogom/261104128