Mr Slobodan Praljak, one of six defence appellants in the Prlić et al. case, passed away today in HMC Hospital in The Hague.
During the public pronouncement of the appeal judgement the Appeals Chamber confirmed his conviction and affirmed Mr Praljak’s sentence of 20 years of imprisonment. Immediately thereafter, Mr Praljak drank a liquid while in court, and quickly fell ill.
Mr Praljak was immediately assisted by the ICTY medical staff. Simultaneously an ambulance was summoned. Mr Praljak was transported to a nearby hospital to receive further medical assistance where he passed.
In accordance with standard procedures, at the request of the ICTY, the Dutch Authorities have initiated an independent investigation which is currently ongoing.
The Tribunal has extended its condolences to the next of kin.