VIOLENCE WILL NOT STOP REFUGEE RETURN IN BOSNIA

( Editorial: --> 9817 ) SARAJEVO, April 27 (Hina) - Representatives of international organisations working in Bosnia-Herzegovina on Monday in Sarajevo said that last week's incidents in Derventa and Drvar will not prevent the return of refugees, establishment of multi-ethnic authorities or elections planned for September this year. The spokesperson for the High Representative's Office, Aisling Burne, stated that after the violence in Drvar only 10 per cent of Serbs who had returned to Drvar left again. Burne believes this shows that the process of return cannot be stopped by anything. She warned that the international community is very seriously investigating leads that the attacks in Drvar and Derventa were organised. In case this is proved, Burne said all necessary measures will be undertaken including replacement of elected officials. In light of events in Derventa and Drvar, the UN mission in Bosnia- Herzegovina today released a statement by the UN Secretary- General's special envoy, Elizabeth Rehn, which expresses that organisation's commitment to help and encourage the return of refugees. The International Police Task Force (IPTF) as of yesterday organised special patrols in Drvar and surrounding villages which will have SFOR support if necessary, she added. UN spokesperson, Alexander Ivanko, confirmed that an agreement to establish a multi-ethnic police force in the Livno Canton will be signed in Livno tomorrow. From 9 May police of Serb nationality will be included in its make-up. (hina) jn mrb/as 271554 MET apr 98