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Prosecutor's comments on purported statements by Ambassador Robert Gelbard.

Press Release PROSECUTOR

(Exclusively for the use of the media. Not an official document)

The Hague, 27 February 1998
CC/PIO/296-E


Prosecutor's comments on purported statements by Ambassador Robert Gelbard

Justice Louise Arbour, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), is aware that statements have purportedly been made by US Ambassador Robert Gelbard to the effect that in relation to indictments issued by the Tribunal, the United States “believes that a significant number of indictments will not stand up in court”.

If such statements have been made the Prosecutor regards them as without foundation and purely speculative since no State, including the United States of America, has access to the evidence upon which indictments have been confirmed.

Arrest warrants issued by Judges of the Tribunal, upon the confirmation of indictments, constitute the legally binding and sufficient authority for the arrest of indicted accused and their surrender to the Tribunal.

The Prosecutor wishes to express once again her gratitude to all those who facilitate the arrest and surrender of indictees, including the United States and Ambassador Gelbard in particular.

 

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International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia
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