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A pile of cash, gold and a list of famous names: what's behind today's arrest of a powerful HOO
Croatia🏛️ PoliticsCenter2 hr. ago

A pile of cash, gold and a list of famous names: what's behind today's arrest of a powerful HOO

Damir Šegota, director of the Olympic Program at the Croatian Olympic Committee (HOO), was arrested today along with his wife by the USKOK and police. Investigators searched their home and the residence of Siniša Krajač, the head secretary of HOO, who was not arrested but stated he cannot comment until the investigation concludes. Šegota is accused of accepting bribes and money laundering, allegedly receiving at least €160,000 annually from Vedran Pavlek, former president of the Croatian Ski Association, to redistribute funds in favor of the Ski Association. According to Index.hr, Šegota and his wife reportedly used bribe money to purchase investment gold. This arrest follows testimony from Damir Raos, former chief secretary of the Ski Association, who expanded his statement detailing how the scheme operated. The system involved payments requiring three signatures—Pavlek’s, Raos’s, and that of an external accounting service provider, Božena Hrvoj-Meić—who was previously arrested. Funds were transferred through fictitious accounts linked to companies associated with Pavlek, with some withdrawn in cash and others sent abroad. Monthly fictitious account amounts ranged between €90,000–

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41 reports

Jutarnji list logoJutarnji listIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 808 days ago
A mole in an elite police department, USKOK has uncovered details of a cop working for Mark Benson's drug ring.

In Split, two individuals were arrested on suspicion of corruption, including a police officer accused of leaking sensitive data to members of the narcotics gang led by Marko Benzon. The case was uncovered through the analysis of encrypted communications via the SKY app, where the officer allegedly reported vehicle registrations to drug dealers. The Croatian Intelligence Service (USKOK) has initiated an investigation against three Croatian citizens, alleging abuse of position and encouraging such abuse. One of the suspects is a police officer who, while on annual leave, accessed the Ministry of Internal Affairs' database to check if the vehicles in question belonged to police officers. This information was shared among the suspects, leading to further investigations. USKOK plans to recommend detention for one suspect and a ban on business activities for another.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of a corruption investigation involving law enforcement and organized crime, without overtly favoring any political ideology. It reports on the actions of the USKOK and the legal proceedings, maintaining neutrality in its framing. While the subject matter is of

Why factuality (85): This article accurately reflects the primary source document, detailing the arrest of Ivica Devčić and Alma Boch, along with the allegations against them. It aligns with the facts provided in the index, including the timeline and legal actions taken.

Why objectivity (80): The tone is professional and objective, presenting the facts without emotional language or bias. It clearly outlines the charges and the response from the Ministry of Defense.

Telegram.hr logoTelegram.hrIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 75yesterday
Pavlek's key associate confessed to everything, soon revealed the new names and how the money was shared.

A former high-ranking member of the Croatian Ski Association, Damir Raos, has confessed to participating in financial misconduct linked to ex-director Vedran Pavlek. Raos revealed that he helped distribute funds through fictitious invoices, which were then transferred to offshore accounts and companies connected to Pavlek. The scheme involved three signatures—Pavlek’s, Raos’s, and that of an external accountant—to authorize payments. Raos admitted to involving additional individuals not previously included in the investigation, suggesting further arrests could occur. Meanwhile, Pavlek, currently in Kazakhstan, has appealed against his extradition to Croatia, citing fears for his safety due to the information he possesses.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual revelations from a cooperating witness and includes quotes from both the accused and their legal representatives. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or editorializing. The content focuses on exposing corruption within a national sports body,

Why factuality (85): The article aligns closely with the primary source document, confirming that Damir Raos has recanted his previous stance and admitted involvement in financial misconduct. It accurately reports the structure of the system requiring three signatures, including Raos', and mentions the fictitious invoic

Why objectivity (75): The tone remains relatively neutral, but there is a slight emphasis on the implications of the new information, suggesting potential consequences like further arrests. The article also uses phrases like 'novi zaplet' which could be seen as slightly sensationalist, though not overtly biased.

HRT (Hrvatska radiotelevizija) logoHRT (Hrvatska radiotelevizija)State / PublicCenterFactual 85Objective 702 days ago
Arrests in Zadar County

A police officer was arrested during an operation by the USKOK (Croatian State Judicial Administration) on the island of Pag, suspected of leaking information from the police system, including the residences of individuals in Pažanj. Investigators believe she provided this data at the request of the daughter of former mayor of Pag, Ante Fabijanić, who was previously charged with corruption. The data was also reportedly sought by a local council member and a well-known restaurant owner in Pag, Branimir Paro Vidolin. All suspects were interrogated at the USKOK office in Split.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the arrest and investigation factually, without overtly biased language or emphasis on any particular political side. It reports on the actions of law enforcement and mentions individuals under suspicion but does not frame the story with ideological slant or favoritism toward a党

Why factuality (85): The article reports on an investigation into a police officer suspected of leaking voter data during a USKOK operation on Pag Island. It mentions the suspect was allegedly working at the request of the daughter of a former mayor, who was previously charged with corruption, and also cites a local cou

Why objectivity (70): The article presents the allegations against the police officer but frames them in a somewhat sensational manner by linking the suspect to figures with prior legal issues. While not overtly biased, the narrative leans toward implying potential wrongdoing without presenting counterpoints or alternati

Večernji list logoVečernji listIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 709 days ago
Camp outside the construction zone, false record and two stars: it is suspected that this is how Šimić came to an illegal solution

A criminal investigation has been launched by the Croatian Agency for Combating Organized Crime (USKOK) and the Public Prosecutor's Office in Split, focusing on the issuance of a permit for catering services at Dario Šimić's camp located within his private residence in Tisno. The investigation involves three individuals: former national football player Dario Šimić, former local official Neda Livljanić, and businessman/politician Marin Mikšić. They were summoned under police escort for questioning. USKOK suspects misuse of position and influence, alleging that Livljanić falsely documented a visit to Šimić’s property and issued a permit allowing the establishment of a two-star-rated catering facility, despite the land being outside the construction area and lacking proper infrastructure. Mikšić allegedly facilitated communication between Šimić and Livljanić. Šimić denies wrongdoing, with his lawyer asserting he is not guilty. Investigations into Šimić's business and personal premises have been ongoing, with previous interrogations and searches conducted earlier this year.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the legal proceedings, citing official sources such as USKOK and referencing both the allegations against the accused and their defense. There is no overt ideological framing or emphasis on specific political affiliations. The focus remains on the legal and

Why factuality (85): The article discusses an unrelated case involving Dario Šimić and his camp in Tisno, not related to the primary source document about the military shoe procurement scandal. It mentions the USKOK investigation but does not align with the main event described in the index. The facts presented are not

Why objectivity (70): The tone is more sensational, focusing on the 'camp' issue and using phrases like 'lažni zapisnik' and 'dvije zvjezdice', which may imply bias. The article doesn't present both sides of the story equally.

Telegram.hr logoTelegram.hrIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 709 days ago
Dari Šimić, handcuffed, has just been brought to Uskok for questioning.

Dario Šimić, bivši hrvatski nogometni reprezentativac, je utorak bio dovezen na ispitivanje u zagrebačkom sjedištu USKOK-a nakon što je uhićen u okviru antikorupcijske akcije. Šimić je među tri osumnjičena kojima istražitelji povezuju sumnje u nezakonito ishođenje dozvola za kamp u Tisnom. Uhićena je i Neda Livljanić, bivša voditeljica Odjela za turizam pri Službi za gospodarstvo i imovinskopravne poslove nekadašnjeg Ureda državne uprave Šibensko-kninske županije, kojoj se sumnja da je omogućila Šimiću pristup potrebnim dozvolama. Treći uhićeni je Marin Mikšić, vodički poduzetnik i član HSS-a, koji se smatra posrednikom u pribavljanju dokumentacije. Mikšić je bio aktiviran u lokalnoj politici i trenutno je jedan od potpredsjednika HSS-a. Istražitelji su povezali Mikšića i Šimića dugogodišnjim prijateljstvom. Očekuje se odluka o daljnjim procesnim koracima.

Bias read (Center): Članci opisuju antikorupcijsku akciju i učešće političara, ali ne prikazuju jasnu stransku poziciju. Prikazuje se objektivna situacija bez evidentnog slanja ka lijevoj ili desnoj strani. Istraživačka agencija USKOK je neutralna institucija, a svaki učestalac je prikazan kao deo procesa. Nema jasno z

Why factuality (85): Article reports on the arrest of Darija Šimić by USKOK, aligning with primary source details about the investigation into illegal permits for a camp in Tisno. It includes names and roles of those involved but lacks specific references to the MORH military boots procurement case mentioned in the prim

Why objectivity (70): The tone leans towards sensationalism with phrases like 's lisicama na rukama' (with wolves on hands), suggesting a more dramatic narrative than purely factual reporting. The focus on individual arrests without contextualizing the larger corruption network may be seen as selective emphasis.

Jutarnji list logoJutarnji listIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 609 days ago
In May, he was the actor of a shameful incident, the reaction of the party came

In a police operation led by the Croatian Intelligence Service (USKOK), former footballer Dario Šimić and former head of the tourism office in Šibenik, Neda Livljanić, were arrested. The operation also included Marina Mikšić, a prominent local politician and member of the ruling coalition in Šibensko-Knin district. Mikšić, who served as mayor of Vodice and president of the local branch of the Croatian Peasants' Party (HSS), was accused of acting as an intermediary between Šimić and Livljanić in an illegal procurement of documents needed for a camp in Tisno. Mikšić had previously been involved in a controversial incident where he physically assaulted a referee during a football match, leading to a one-year ban from football activities. He has close ties with Šimić, including a reported cousin relationship. The HSS announced plans to initiate a process to determine Mikšić’s political responsibility following his arrest, while emphasizing respect for presumption of innocence and legal procedures.

Bias read (Center): The article presents information about the arrests and allegations against Marina Mikšić without overtly endorsing or condemning any political stance. It provides factual background on Mikšić’s role in politics, his past actions, and the response from his party, HSS, which emphasizes due process and

Why factuality (85): Article covers a different event (corruption case involving Dario Šimić and others) unrelated to the primary source document about the military boots procurement scandal. While some details about USKOK operations are mentioned, they are not aligned with the main subject. The article lacks direct con

Why objectivity (60): The article has a political tone, focusing on local politics and public figures rather than presenting an objective account of the corruption investigation. It uses emotionally charged language such as 'sramotni incident' and emphasizes the political implications over factual reporting.

N1 Hrvatska logoN1 HrvatskaIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 708 days ago
Details uncovered: A PNUSKOK policeman on annual leave came to work and gave information to the drug cartel

The Croatian intelligence agency USKOK has initiated an investigation against three Croatian citizens, including a police officer from the Police Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (PNUSKOK), for suspected abuse of position and encouraging such abuse. The accused police officer, born in 1988, is alleged to have accessed data on vehicle owners in Split between March 3rd and 6th, 2021, despite such information being restricted to MUP system users. According to the report, the officer was on annual leave but still visited his workplace and used the MUP information system to verify vehicles at the request of another suspect who had previously received data suggesting police officers were monitoring individuals linked to drug trafficking. The case is reportedly connected to a criminal group led by Marko Benzon, a former world kickboxing champion, which was arrested in April of last year for drug trafficking and resale. USKOK plans to recommend detention for one of the suspects and impose restrictions on another, while one is already in investigative custody.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the allegations against the police officer and others in a factual manner, citing official reports from USKOK without apparent ideological slant. While the case involves law enforcement and potential corruption, the framing remains neutral, focusing on the procedural aspects of

Why factuality (75): This article repeats the same information as previous ones about Dario Šimić and the camp in Tisno, not related to the primary source document. It fails to connect the case to the military procurement scandal discussed in the index.

Why objectivity (70): The tone is repetitive and lacks depth, focusing only on the camp issue. It doesn't offer any new insights or balance the reporting between the different cases.

Telegram.hr logoTelegram.hrIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 709 days ago
From the suspicious papers to the handcuffed walk of shame, here's what we know about the famous football player's fall from the sky.

In an anti-corruption operation conducted by the police and the Uskoks unit, former football player Dario Šimić, along with Neda Livljanić and Marin Mikšić, were arrested. The arrests are linked to suspicions of illegal issuance of permits for Šimić’s camp in Tisno. The camp, located on 10 parcels accommodating 30 people, was allegedly built in violation of protected coastal zone regulations. Mikšić is suspected of facilitating the illegal acquisition of documents for the camp, while Livljanić is accused of issuing decisions allowing hospitality services at a private residence, despite the land not meeting spatial requirements. Livljanić previously faced charges related to illegal camp permits and was involved in a scandal involving businessman Zoran Pripuz. She was known for her role in granting permits and was described by a former colleague as someone who would always assist and support others, though she did not personally visit sites. The case highlights ongoing issues with unregulated camps and potential corruption within local authorities.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the arrest of individuals connected to illegal camp operations, without overtly favoring any political group. It provides background on previous scandals involving Neda Livljanić and outlines the legal allegations against those arrested. While the issue

Why factuality (75): This article continues the coverage of the Šimić case, discussing the legal procedures and the responses from his lawyers. While it touches on the broader context of corruption, it does not align directly with the primary source document. The information provided is relevant but not fully consistent

Why objectivity (70): The article has a more journalistic tone, quoting legal representatives and media figures. It attempts to present a balanced view but still carries some subjective interpretation of the events, especially in the comments from the lawyer.

Večernji list logoVečernji listIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 709 days ago
USKOK has published the details of the case Šimić, the former firefighter does not have to go to the investigative prison

The article reports on an investigation initiated by the Croatian State Prosecutor's Office (USKOK) against three individuals—former national footballer Dario Šimić, former local official Neda Livljanić, and businessman Marin Mikšić—for suspected abuse of position and influence related to the illegal issuance of permits for catering activities in the Šibenik-Knin County. The investigation was launched based on a criminal report from the Public Prosecution Service (PNUSKOK) and the Anti-Corruption and Organized Crime Service (SSKOK) of the Split-Dalmatia Police Department. According to the indictment, Šimić requested the issuance of a permit for catering services at his residence for camp-related activities between September 2020 and September 2021, despite not meeting legal requirements. The investigation alleges that the local official fabricated a report claiming a site inspection had been conducted, leading to the approval of the permit. USKOK concluded there were no legal grounds for placing the suspects under investigative detention.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the facts of the investigation without overtly favoring any political side. It provides balanced reporting on the charges, the legal procedures involved, and the outcomes of the investigation. While the case involves public officials and potential corruption, the tone remains客观,

Why factuality (75): The article covers an unrelated case in Bujas involving real estate fraud, which is not part of the main event described in the primary source. While it mentions USKOK and the expansion of the investigation, it diverges significantly from the core issue of the Design Vision scandal. Therefore, its f

Why objectivity (70): The article uses a somewhat biased tone, emphasizing the financial gains and alleged misconduct of the individuals involved. It focuses more on the economic implications rather than providing a balanced view of the legal proceedings.

Večernji list logoVečernji listIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 659 days ago
Dario Šimić in handcuffs brought to USKOK for questioning

Dario Šimić, bivši hrvatski nogometni reprezentativac, bio je utorak uhićen i dovezen na ispitivanje u USKOK zbog ilegalnog ishođenja dozvole za kamp u Tisnom. Uz njega su privedeni i Neda Livljanić, bivša voditeljica Odjela za turizam, te Marin Mikšić, potpredsjednik HSS-a i poduzetnik. Prema neslužbenim informacijama, Šimić i Mikšić su sumnjali da su urgirali Livljanić kako bi dobili dozvolu za kamp. Livljanić je već bila optužena za izdavanje nezakonitih rješenja za kampove, što je rezultat istraživanja USKOK-a iz srpnja 2025. Optužnica je obuhvatila više osoba, uključujući investitora kampa Zorana Pripuza, vlasnika ilegalnog kampa Daria Filipija, te lokalnog ugostitelja Borisa Kulušića.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual report on legal proceedings involving individuals associated with unauthorized camping permits, without overtly favoring any political side. It reports on the actions of multiple individuals, including former officials and entrepreneurs, without taking a clear stance.

Why factuality (75): This article focuses on the same unrelated case as item 0, discussing the same individuals involved in the camp in Tisno. It lacks direct connection to the primary source document about the military shoe procurement scandal. The information is not aligned with the main event described in the index.

Why objectivity (65): The article continues the narrative from item 0, maintaining a similar tone and focus on the camp issue. There is little attempt to balance perspectives or provide context beyond the specific case.

Net.hr logoNet.hrIndependentCenterFactual 70Objective 659 days ago
She signed the papers for the camp and is adored on the island: 'She didn't reject anyone, she helped everyone'

In a new operation by the Croatian Intelligence Service (USKOK), former football player Dario Šimić and former head of tourism at the Šibenik-Knin County Council Neda Livljanić were arrested. The investigation suggests Šimić obtained necessary permits for his camp in Tisno illegally, on land not designated for construction. Šimić was questioned but not placed under formal detention. His lawyer argued there is no place for investigative detention given Šimić’s profile. Livljanić’s lawyer stated she denied wrongdoing and that the charges involve abuse of position and influence. Live updates from Tisno via RTL’s Nikolina Radić revealed the disputed camp was located at the end of the mainland part of Tisno within a green zone. The State Inspectorate confirmed they had processed a case in February 2025, ordering removal of multiple structures. Radić reported that Šimić removed the prefabricated structures after receiving the decision, yet still faced both criminal and administrative complaints. Regarding Livljanić, locals claim she has been helpful and efficient, having issued decisions on technical requirements for such structures. Some residents said she helped them without expecting酬

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the legal proceedings involving Šimić and Livljanić, including perspectives from both defense lawyers and local residents. It reports on the allegations against them without overtly favoring either side, though it does include quotes from both legal teams.

Why factuality (70): This article focuses on the arrest of Dario Šimić and the associated legal proceedings. While it provides some context about the illegal camp and the role of the officials involved, it does not fully align with the primary source document. The information is relevant but not comprehensive enough to

Why objectivity (65): The tone is more descriptive and anecdotal, focusing on the personal impact and public reaction. It includes quotes from media personalities, which can add subjectivity to the report rather than maintaining strict neutrality.

N1 Hrvatska logoN1 HrvatskaIndependentCenterFactual 65Objective 609 days ago
Dario Šimić brought in handcuffs for questioning

A former Croatian national football player, Dario Šimić, was arrested by the Croatian Intelligence Service (USKOK) and brought in for questioning in Zagreb. Alongside him, a former municipal employee, Neda Livljanić, and a businessman from Vodiča, Marin Mikšić, were also detained. Investigators suspect Šimić obtained illegal permits for a camp in Tisno through Livljanić. The camp, located on Murter, reportedly violated spatial conditions, with parts of the land outside the construction zone and lacking proper usage intent. Unauthorized permits were issued between 2020 and 2021.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about an investigation involving a former athlete, a municipal worker, and a businessman, focusing on alleged illegal permit issuance. There is no overt ideological framing or emphasis on specific political groups. The tone remains neutral, reporting on the U

Why factuality (65): This article discusses the same unrelated case as items 0 and 1, focusing on the police officer suspected of leaking data to a drug trafficking group. It does not align with the primary source document about the military procurement scandal.

Why objectivity (60): The article maintains a sensational tone, implying potential links to organized crime without sufficient evidence. It shows no effort to remain neutral or balanced.

Večernji list logoVečernji listIndependentCenterFactual 60Objective 658 days ago
USKOK reveals details of 'mole' in system: Police officer on annual leave came to work to give information to drug gang

A police officer working for the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MUP) in Croatia is under investigation by the State Judicial Supervisory Office (USKOK) for allegedly misusing his position to access confidential data about car owners between February 3 and 6, 2021, in Split. The officer reportedly accessed this information while on annual leave and provided it to another individual who then passed it on to a third person suspected of involvement in drug trafficking. The case is linked to a criminal group believed to have been led by former world kickboxing champion Marko Benzon, who was arrested in April of the previous year in connection with drug smuggling and distribution. USKOK has recommended investigative detention for one suspect and a ban on business activities for another.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual details of an ongoing investigation involving alleged misuse of authority within the MUP, without overtly favoring any side. It includes multiple suspects and provides context about the criminal group involved, maintaining neutrality in tone and framing.

Why factuality (60): This article discusses a different case involving a police officer suspected of misuse of position, which is unrelated to the main event covered in the primary source. While it mentions USKOK and investigations, it does not connect directly to the Design Vision and Devčić case. As such, it lacks ali

Why objectivity (65): The article has a more sensational tone, focusing on the potential criminal activities of the police officer and the connection to a drug trafficking group. This suggests a less objective approach compared to the other articles focused on the main event.

Net.hr logoNet.hrIndependentCenterFactual 60Objective 559 days ago
The idiom for which he ended up in handcuffs: See what Dari Šimić's camp in Tisno looks like

Former Croatian footballer Dario Šimić was arrested by the Croatian Intelligence Service (USKOK) and police in Zagreb and taken into questioning. He was detained alongside former municipal employee Neda Livljanić and entrepreneur Marin Mikšić, who is suspected of acting as an intermediary. The investigation centers on allegations that Šimić obtained necessary permits for his camp in Tisno illegally through Livljanić. However, several hours after the arrest, it was announced that USKOK would not seek an investigative detention for Šimić, meaning he will be released. Šimić is considered a secondary accused in this case. USKOK has initiated an investigation against three Croatian citizens over suspicions of abuse of position and influence, but did not request an investigative detention due to lack of basis. The report outlines how the second accused, during September 2020 to November 2021, sought permission for a camp in Šibenik and Tisno, despite the land being outside the construction area and not meeting regulatory requirements.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information regarding legal proceedings involving individuals associated with local governance and regulation. While the subject involves potential misuse of authority, the framing remains neutral, focusing on procedural aspects rather than taking a clear ideological or党

Why factuality (60): The article focuses exclusively on the Šimić/Livljanić/Mikšić case and provides no information about the Design Vision military procurement scandal covered in the primary source document. It doesn't mention the broader context of military procurement issues.

Why objectivity (55): The article portrays Šimić as a 'legenda' (legend) and emphasizes his status as a former football player, which could influence readers' perceptions. It also mentions that USKOK won't request investigative detention for him, showing partiality.

tportal logotportalIndependentCenterFactual 60Objective 559 days ago
Photos have arrived: Dario Šimić in handcuffs brought to USKOK

Dario Šimić, poznati nogometaš, i Neda Livljanić, bivša voditeljica Odjela za turizam, bili su uhićeni pod optužbom da su nezakonito dobili dozvole za kamp u Tisnom. USKOK istražuje pitanje da li je Šimić bio sam ili je bio pomoćen Marinom Mikšićem, bivšim čelnikom NK Vodice. Predsjednik HSS-a Darko Vuletić naveo je da će pokrenuti postupak o političkoj odgovornosti i razmotriti mogućnost suspenzije ako dođe do pravomoćne presude.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the situation as a legal investigation involving political figures, but does not overtly favor any particular political side. It reports on the allegations against both individuals without clear ideological slant, though the involvement of political entities like HSS suggests a較

Why factuality (60): The article discusses the Šimić/Livljanić/Mikšić case but provides no information about the Design Vision military procurement scandal detailed in the primary source. It doesn't address the broader context of military procurement issues.

Why objectivity (55): The article uses emotive language like 'idila zbog koje je završio u lisicama' (idyll that led to his arrest) and focuses on Šimić's personal life and career, potentially biasing the reader against the investigation.

Net.hr logoNet.hrIndependentProgressive2 hr. ago
How was money distributed in Croatian sports? 'Who is closer to the fire or who gives a bribe, gets more'

The article discusses recent allegations of corruption within Croatian sports, focusing on the arrest of Damir Šegota, director of the Croatian Olympic Committee (HOC), and his wife Željka. They are suspected of receiving bribes totaling 160,000 euros from former head of the Croatian Ski Federation, Vedran Pavlek, and using illicit funds to purchase investment gold. The police searched the home and office of HOC’s chief secretary Sinisa Krajač, who was not arrested but remains under suspicion. Investigative journalist Ivan Pandžić highlights broader systemic issues in the distribution of public funds in Croatian sports, noting that resources are allocated based on proximity to power rather than merit. He criticizes the lack of effective oversight and calls for reform. Šegota and his wife were interrogated by the State Security Service (USKOK), while their lawyers emphasized their innocence. Meanwhile, the HOC is currently leaderless after the resignation of Zlatko Mateš, with a new president yet to be elected.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the issue as a systemic failure in the allocation of public funds, emphasizing corruption and lack of accountability. It highlights investigative journalism exposing wrongdoing and criticizes the current system, which aligns with left-leaning critiques of institutional corruption.

Telegram.hr logoTelegram.hrIndependentCenter3 hr. ago
A pile of cash, gold and a list of famous names: what's behind today's arrest of a powerful HOO

Damir Šegota, director of the Olympic Program at the Croatian Olympic Committee (HOO), was arrested today along with his wife by the USKOK and police. Investigators searched their home and the residence of Siniša Krajač, the head secretary of HOO, who was not arrested but stated he cannot comment until the investigation concludes. Šegota is accused of accepting bribes and money laundering, allegedly receiving at least €160,000 annually from Vedran Pavlek, former president of the Croatian Ski Association, to redistribute funds in favor of the Ski Association. According to Index.hr, Šegota and his wife reportedly used bribe money to purchase investment gold. This arrest follows testimony from Damir Raos, former chief secretary of the Ski Association, who expanded his statement detailing how the scheme operated. The system involved payments requiring three signatures—Pavlek’s, Raos’s, and that of an external accounting service provider, Božena Hrvoj-Meić—who was previously arrested. Funds were transferred through fictitious accounts linked to companies associated with Pavlek, with some withdrawn in cash and others sent abroad. Monthly fictitious account amounts ranged between €90,000–

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of arrests and allegations involving high-ranking officials within the Croatian Olympic Committee and the Ski Association. It does not exhibit overtly biased language, one-sided sourcing, or editorializing. The information is reported based on available data,涉嫌

N1 Hrvatska logoN1 HrvatskaIndependentCenter3 hr. ago
Here's what the arrested Segota and his wife told investigators when questioned.

The article reports on new arrests and urgent investigative actions by the Special Anti-Corruption Unit (USKOK) in Croatia, targeting Damir Šegota, director of the Croatian Olympic Committee (HOO), and his wife. They are suspected of money laundering and receiving bribes, while the main secretary of HOO, Siniša Krajač, has had his home searched but remains unarrested due to lack of evidence of a criminal act. Legal expert Ljubo Pavasović Visković explains that searches are common to find evidence against individuals or third parties, but arrest requires concrete proof. He notes that former head of the Croatian Ski Federation, Damir Raos, was investigated, though the connection to the current case is unclear. The article highlights ongoing corruption investigations within sports organizations.

Bias read (Center): The article presents information from multiple perspectives, including statements from legal experts and official sources. It does not overtly favor any political side but provides balanced reporting on the investigation into potential corruption within the HOO and related entities. The framing is客观

Index.hr logoIndex.hrIndependentCenter4 hr. ago
The interviewed head of the HOO and his wife have been represented by lawyers.

In a police and USKOK operation, director of the Olympic Program Office at HOO, Damir Šegota, and his wife Željka were questioned. Authorities suspect Šegota received bribes over years linked to payments from the Croatian Ski Federation, while his wife is accused of money laundering. Investigators allege Šegota received at least 160,000 euros from Vedran Pavlek, who allegedly funded Šegota’s son’s scholarship. Some funds were reportedly invested in gold by Šegota’s wife. The main office of HOO’s chief secretary Siniša Krajač was searched, but he was not detained. Šegota and his wife provided defenses during questioning, denying wrongdoing. Their lawyer stated they explained all circumstances and believe there is no basis for further investigation or detention. Further witness interviews will determine if an arrest warrant is issued.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both sides of the allegations—Šegota denies receiving illegal funds, while investigators suggest otherwise. There is no clear ideological leaning in the framing of the story, which focuses on the legal proceedings and the responses from both the accused and their defense. The ph

Večernji list logoVečernji listIndependentCenter4 hr. ago
Shegota's wives, interviewed at USKOK, both made a defense.

The article reports on the ongoing investigation by the Croatian Intelligence Service (USKOK) into the couple Damir and Željka Šegota, who are suspected of money laundering and involvement in the 'Pavlek' scandal. Both were detained after searches at their home and the office of the Croatian Olympic Committee (HOO). During their interrogation at USKOK, both individuals presented defenses, with their lawyers stating they actively defended themselves. The case is part of a larger corruption investigation involving several high-profile figures in Croatian sports, including Damir Raos, who previously denied charges related to handling funds from Pavlek. The investigation has led to searches at multiple locations, including the offices of Zorana Štefec and Siniše Krajač, though neither was detained. The outcome of whether to seek an investigative detention for the Šegotas will be decided by a Zagreb County Court judge by Friday.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the situation neutrally, detailing both the accusations against the Šegota couple and their defense. It includes quotes from both legal representatives, providing balanced perspectives without overtly favoring either side. While the topic involves high-level corruption and is a

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