Arrests Target Alleged Election Violence Planners
The Serbian state television station RTS reported Wednesday that police have arrested individuals suspected of organizing acts of violence for the upcoming election day. The operation, conducted in the northern city of Novi Sad, targeted a group of approximately 80 people alleged to be preparing to participate in unrest in Belgrade on October 25.
According to RTS, law enforcement officers conducted searches of homes and other premises used by the suspects during the operation. The broadcaster stated that the arrests were part of efforts to prevent planned disturbances ahead of the national vote.
Prosecutor’s Office Details Detentions
The Higher Public Prosecutor’s Office in Belgrade, known by its Serbian acronym VJT, confirmed on Wednesday that Novi Sad police arrested five people acting on its orders. The office alleged that these suspects were planning to commit acts of violence and spark riots.
Prosecutors further stated that the group intended to attack political opponents and police officers on election day. The VJT noted that the five detained suspects have been held for up to 48 hours pending further legal proceedings.
Separate Arrest in Vrnjacka Banja
In a separate operation, authorities arrested a man in the spa resort town of Vrnjacka Banja. The Higher Public Prosecutor’s Office reported that this individual was taken into custody on suspicion of calling for the violent overthrow of constitutional order.
Prosecutors alleged that the man in Vrnjacka Banja also planned to participate in the unrest scheduled for Belgrade on election day. This arrest was listed as a distinct action from the Novi Sad operation, though both are linked to the same upcoming event.
Election Day Context
Serbian voters are scheduled to go to the polls on Sunday, October 25, to cast ballots for a new parliament. The arrests and searches reported by state media and prosecutors occur in the final days leading up to this national vote.