AIRSOFT CLUBS IN FEDERATION OF BiH LINKED TO VIOLENT EXTREMISM

BUGOJNO, NOVEMBER 13 /SRNA/ – Martial arts and airsoft clubs linked to Islamic extremism and often run by radicalized individuals represent a particular security concern for BiH, writes Večernji List, the BiH edition, citing a report by the European Commission.

This phenomenon is said to be characteristic of BiH, primarily of the Federation of BiH, and is connected to Islamic extremism, according to the European Commission's 2023 report titled "Violent Extremism and Sport in the Western Balkans".

The report states that a particular danger lies in the radicalization of children indoctrinated in camps under the pretext of learning sports skills.

Special attention in the report is given to the misuse of airsoft clubs by Islamic extremists in BiH. The issue has again come into focus following a recent competition in Bugojno and the participants’ iconography, which the European Commission clearly identified as a threat to the security of the entire region.

That airsoft is more than a sport was confirmed by Bugojno Mayor Edin Mašić, who opened the competition and told the media that airsoft is "a form of military training," Večernji reports.

However, the appearance of the participants at that "competition" caused fear among others, as it reminded them of Islamic extremist groups that left bloody traces during the past war in BiH, especially in central Bosnia.

The European Commission pointed out that airsoft clubs are becoming increasingly popular in the Federation of BiH, where more than 40 are registered, and classified them as part of the category of violent extremism phenomena, alongside martial arts sports and certain fan groups.

For years, these clubs reportedly received most of their funding from SDA officials. Judging by the statement of the Bugojno mayor, who is from SDP, their financing remains secure even after the SDA lost many levers of power in the FBiH and moved into opposition.

What is particularly concerning is that some police officials in central Bosnia are also said to be involved in recruiting young people into airsoft and shooting clubs.