Dacic: Request for arrest warrants for Dodik, Stevandic under preliminary review

BELGRADE - Serbian Deputy PM and Interior Minister Ivica Dacic said on Tuesday a request to issue international arrest warrants for Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik and Parliament Speaker Nenad Stevandic was under preliminary review by INTERPOL's Notices and Diffusions Task Force (NDTF) and that a final decision would be made by the Commission for the Control of INTERPOL's Files (CCF) between April 7 and 11.

Dacic said the NDTF was "verifying (the request's) compliance with the organisation's Constitution and rules."

He noted that Serbia's engagement in the process had averted the issuance of executive arrest warrants, ensuring safety and protection to Serbian citizens.

Serbia respects international institutions and the legal framework but will not deviate from its procedures in protection of the rights and interests of its citizens, Dacic added.

"Serbia will remain committed to this process and take an active part in all steps to ensure that a decision is made in the interest of our citizens, justice and lawfulness," he said.

Dodik and Stevandic also have Serbian citizenship.