In recent years, Belgrade has witnessed numerous cases of contract killings where paid hitmen mistakenly killed wrong individuals. The victims often were not the primary targets, and the perpetrators were mostly amateurs relying on superficial and unreliable identification methods. Mistakes occur due to pressure, incomplete information, and the speed of task execution, leading to tragic consequences where innocent people are killed. Notable cases include the killing of Ivan A., Croatian basketball player Jovan Manević, and others who had no connection to criminal circles. These events raise public concern and highlight serious issues in organized crime and security.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets emphasize the human cost of organized crime and the failures of law enforcement to protect innocent civilians. They highlight the systemic issues that allow amateur hitmen to operate and call for stronger social programs and reforms to address the root causes of crime.
Center: Centrist sources report the facts of the incidents, focusing on the details of the cases and the challenges faced by police in apprehending perpetrators. They stress the importance of improving investigative methods and judicial processes to reduce such tragic errors.
Right: Right-leaning media often focus on the law and order aspect, emphasizing the need for harsher penalties and stronger police action against organized crime. They may also highlight the dangers posed by criminal networks and the importance of maintaining public safety through strict enforcement.
