The Special State Prosecutor’s Office (SDT) and the Special Police Department (SPO) have conducted an extensive investigation and arrests related to cigarette smuggling in Montenegro. Among those arrested are the former director of the company Rokšped, Prokopije Perić, and other members of the organized criminal group. The investigation involves 15 individuals, including the fugitive owner of Rokšped, Sander Stanaj, who is currently outside Montenegro. The SDT suspects that this group caused multi-million euro damages to the state and that the money earned from smuggling was used to purchase real estate domestically and abroad. Arrests were made in several cities, and the investigation is ongoing.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets emphasize the systemic corruption and the impact of cigarette smuggling on the state economy, highlighting the role of organized crime and the need for stronger law enforcement and anti-corruption measures. They may also focus on the social consequences of smuggling and the importance of protecting public health.
Center: Centrist sources report the facts of the investigation and arrests, focusing on the legal process and the involvement of key suspects. They provide balanced coverage of the case, including statements from authorities and defense representatives, and emphasize the ongoing nature of the investigation.
Right: Right-leaning media may highlight the criminal aspect and the threat to national security posed by smuggling networks. They might stress the importance of law and order, the efficiency of the police and prosecution, and call for harsher penalties for organized crime. Some may also criticize government inefficiency or corruption that allowed such activities to flourish.
