Zeljko Raznatovic, also known as Arkan, was born on April 17, 1952 in Serbia. He grew up in a tumultuous environment, witnessing the aftermath of World War II and the political upheaval in his country. Despite these challenges, he developed a rebellious spirit from a young age.
Arkan's criminal behavior began early on in his life. He was first arrested in 1966 for stealing women's purses, a crime that landed him in prison for a year. This experience did not deter him, as he continued to engage in criminal activities even after his release.
One of Arkan's most notorious traits was his ability to escape from prison. He managed to break out of captivity four times between 1973 and 1983, earning a reputation as a skilled fugitive. His daring escapes only added to his legend as a criminal mastermind.
Arkan's criminal activities caught the attention of Serbian authorities, but it was his involvement in the Yugoslav Wars that truly solidified his reputation. He became the commander of the Serb Volunteer Guard, a paramilitary group known for its brutality during the conflict. Arkan's leadership of this group earned him international notoriety and the nickname "The Tiger."
Arkan's actions during the Yugoslav Wars did not go unnoticed by the United Nations, who indicted him for various crimes. However, before he could stand trial, Arkan was assassinated by 23-year-old Dobrosav Gavric. His death marked the end of a controversial and violent chapter in Serbian history.
Arkan was a complex figure, known for his criminal activities but also for his personal relationships. He had a total of nine children with five different women, demonstrating a complicated family dynamic. One of his most well-known relationships was with Serbian pop singer Ceca, whom he married in 1995.
Together, Arkan and Ceca had a daughter named Anastasija and a son named Veljko. Despite his criminal reputation, Arkan was a devoted family man who prioritized his children's well-being.
Arkan's legacy is a controversial one, marked by violence, criminality, and political intrigue. While some view him as a ruthless war criminal, others see him as a hero who fought for Serbian interests during a turbulent time. Regardless of one's opinion, it is clear that Arkan left a lasting impact on the region and continues to be a polarizing figure in Serbian history.
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