A convicted Macedonian war criminal has received a massive welcome from tens of thousands of people, after serving an 8 year sentence for war crimes committed during the country’s conflict with ethnic Albanians.
Former police officer Johan Tarculovski was found guilty by a UN tribunal for the murder of three ethnic Albanian civilians, to which he was sentenced to 12 years in prison. He was released from a German jail after serving 8 years.
Billboards and posters bearing the words “Welcome home Johan” were seen amongst the tens of thousands who had gathered outside the country’s airport in Skopje, in anticipation of his return, which was broadcast live on television.
Former interior minister, Pavle Trajanov, said in an interview,
"Macedonians have never accepted the U.N. tribunal findings that only Macedonians were responsible for the conflict".
Tarculovski told supporters,
“I express my gratitude to all those who gave their lives and defended Macedonia… Thank you all for the support. It meant everything to me. Long live Macedonia.”
Meanwhile an ethnic Albanian political analyst, Albert Musliu stated,
“I would understand if his return was celebrated by his family, friends, and fellow fighters from 2001… The question is whether all this deserved such a huge celebration that included government officials. I’m a little disappointed that such celebration was held for the man who was sentenced for war crimes against civilians of this country.”
See the report from the AP here.
