MOSTAR, October 7 (FENA) – In the catastrophic floods that hit Jablanica and Konjic, 16 deaths have been officially confirmed, and search efforts are ongoing for nine missing persons, the Government of Herzegovina-Neretva Canton reported today at a press conference.

It was stated that 15 individuals died in Jablanica and one in Konjic.

The Government of the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton officially established a Task Force to manage the processes of damage assessment, recovery, and rehabilitation for the flood-affected areas during today’s emergency session.

Regarding the accountability for the controversial quarry above Jablanica, the relevant Ministry of Economy has been tasked with retrieving all documentation from the archives and submitting a report to the Government and the Task Force.

The HNC Government will declare a day of mourning in consultation with higher levels of government.