Skopje, 16 May 2024 (MIA) – The Basic Public Prosecutor’s Office Skopje is undertaking investigative activities to acquire and analyze evidence against the prime suspect in the murder of Vanja Gjorchevska and Panche Zhezhovski, Ljupcho Plaevski, also known as Palcho, who was extradited from Turkey Wednesday evening.

According to the Basic Public Prosecutor's Office Skopje, the investigation into the remaining five suspects in this case has reached its final phase.

“For the five suspects, including three accomplices in serious criminal offences - two abductions and two brutal murders, one suspect for aiding in the abduction of a minor, and one suspect for aiding after the commission of the criminal offence, the investigation is in its final phase,” Prosecutor's Office said in a press release.

The investigation into the case continues at the Basic Public Prosecutor's Office Skopje.

Palevski, who was arrested in Balikesir, Turkey on December 6, 2023, last night, escorted by a convoy of five Interpol vehicles, was taken to the Shutka prison. He is under a special security regime in the prison, with no contact with other detainees.

He is suspected of the murder of the 14-year-old Vanja and 74-year-old Panche, who were reported missing on November 27 and November 24, 2023, and found dead near Veles and Skopje on December 3.

Also implicated in the murder are Velibor Manev, Vlatko Keshichov, and Bore Videvski, who are in custody in Skopje. Recently, Vanja's father, Aleksandar Gjorchevski, suspected of aiding in the abduction, has been placed under house arrest.

Precautionary measures have also been taken for Stefan Dimovski, Palcho's driver, who is suspected of aiding in the escape.

Photo: MIA archive