Croatian Police prevent over 71,000 illegal border crossings
- by croatiaweek
- in News
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(Photo: MUP)
Croatia’s Minister of the Interior, Davor Božinović, says that police in the county prevented over 71,000 illegal border crossings in 2023.
“We estimate that last year the police prevented more than 71 thousand individual illegal entries into the territory of Croatia. Croatia has not and will never become a hotspot for migrants,” said Božinović.
He made this statement during a visit to the eastern Brod-Posavina Police Department this week.
This area, covering 175 kilometres of river border along the Sava, poses unique challenges as migrants often attempt dangerous crossings even in harsh conditions.
Focus on Border Security
In 2023, the police reduced illegal migration by nearly 59% compared to the previous year, combining advanced technology and strategic tactics.
New stationary cameras, such as the RANGER 800/750 M, can identify people up to 3 kilometres away and licence plates from 8 kilometres, enhancing surveillance along the border.
The Schengen bus, equipped for operational coordination, further supports field officers.
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(Photo: MUP)
Efforts include intensive vehicle checks, with over 13,300 inspections last year, and the deportation of individuals unable to justify their presence in Croatia.
“These measures are why illegal crossings dropped so significantly,” Božinović explained, adding that 1,400 deportations were linked to migration cases.
While protecting borders, Croatian police also prioritise saving lives, he added. He says that each year, officers rescue around 100 migrants from life-threatening situations, such as navigating the fast and swollen Sava River.
Božinović noted, “Our focus is on strong border protection while safeguarding human lives. This balance defines our approach and demonstrates the professionalism of our police.”
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(Photo: MUP)
The minister emphasised Croatia’s role in addressing broader European migration issues, including visa policy inconsistencies in neighbouring countries.
Some migrants enter Bosnia and Herzegovina or Serbia as tourists before heading to Croatia’s external EU borders. Aligning visa regimes across the region could mitigate these challenges.
Božinović dismissed concerns about migrants returning to Croatia, citing European legislation that excludes the country as their first point of entry after several months.
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(Photo: MUP)
Collaboration with Italy and Slovenia remains a priority for Croatia. Božinović reaffirmed that joint police efforts are key to tackling secondary migration within the EU and praised the progress of current trilateral initiatives.
Božinović firmly stated that Croatia will not become a migration hotspot: “We have one of the most effective police forces in the EU, ensuring our citizens’ safety while contributing to the security of the entire Union.”