AIRSOFT CLUBS AS MILITARY PARAJAMATES

SARAJEVO, OCTOBER 27 /SRNA/ – Airsoft clubs are increasingly becoming a replacement or substitute for so-called parallel parajamates, while many Wahhabi associations and advocates of that ideology have, through these clubs, established military-style parajamat, security expert Dževad Galijašević told SRNA.

Commenting on an invitation by the club Igman 35 for adult men to join sports airsoft training which includes, among other things, military-tactical movement and martial arts, Galijašević said that these clubs conduct classic military training. Galijašević explained that anyone trained in these types of weapons systems knows how to handle any other weapons; the only difference is in the use of live ammunition. "This is exactly what's happening and it poses a security problem. This is a problem of radical Islamism; it is unfortunate that the EU fails to see how this radical Islamic identity manifests itself in various forms," Galijašević explained. According to him, such an invitation also serves to spread fear among Christians in BiH. He emphasized the religious component of the airsoft club Igman 35's call as a signal of militant Islamism, stressing that the club is supported by the SDA and SDP parties. "This training, which is essentially military, is a message to Bosniaks, i.e. Muslims, for further homogenization and practical mobilization," Galijašević said. He explained that people undergoing this type of training are often seen throughout BiH, especially in the Una-Sana Canton and around Sarajevo, particularly on Mount Igman. Through such messages, he has noted, a religious message is being sent, and determination and self-confidence fueled by attacks on Republika Srpska carried out by the United Kingdom and Germany through Christian Schmidt, are obvious. He pointed out that it is now evident they no longer hide but act publicly, encouraged by the fact that Serbia is being destabilized by protests and student blockades. Recently, a disturbing video was posted on the Igman 35 Facebook page, inviting adult men to join sports airsoft training involving military-tactical movement, hiking, martial arts, shooting, and overnight stays outdoors in all weather conditions. Their stated goals include "promoting good and discouraging evil," as well as supporting all institutions, agencies, organisations, and individuals who support united state of BiH.