Arrests, Protests, and Accusations: Serbia on Edge Over Students Allegedly Plotting Violent Regime Change!
In Belgrade, Novi Sad, Niš, and Zemun, a real drama is unfolding! A group of eight students was arrested on June 29 by order of the Higher Public Prosecutor’s Office on suspicion of planning attacks on state institutions and violent regime change. Is this a genuine fight for justice or just another attempt to suppress student activism?
What Happened?
According to the prosecutor’s statement, the suspects on June 20 and 21 met in the premises of the Electrical and Civil Engineering Faculties in Belgrade to plan and prepare road blockades and attacks on critical infrastructure across Serbia. The goal? Allegedly, violent regime change. Police arrested six during the operation, while two were placed in 30-day detention after notebooks with plans for violent actions were found.
Protests and Blockades
Following the arrests, students took to the streets. In Belgrade, they blocked streets with containers and fences, while in Novi Sad and Niš, major traffic intersections were blocked. Citizens joined the protests, expressing support for the detainees. The Instagram profile “studenti_u_blokadi” called for mass faculty blockades and protests nationwide.
Police and Injuries
During clashes with police, 48 officers were injured, 77 citizens were detained, and 38 were held in custody. Interior Minister Ivica Dačić stated the arrests were necessary due to the seriousness of the charges.
Court and Justice
The court denied detention for six suspects, but the Higher Public Prosecutor’s Office filed appeals, arguing there is a risk they might repeat the crime. Some suspects deny the charges, while one partially admitted guilt.
Political Context
At a meeting in the Civil Engineering Faculty, prosecutors claim it was confirmed that the ultimatum for holding elections was just an excuse to apply violence, as participants believed they would not win those elections. Is this proof that students are not just dissatisfied but ready for extreme measures? Or is this just another way to discredit the opposition and activism?
What Do Critics Say?
While the government claims this is a serious threat to the state, many citizens and activists see it as an attempt to intimidate youth and suppress freedom of expression. Is the arrest of students fighting for their rights truly a fight against violence or violence against them?
Conclusion
Serbia stands at a crossroads. Will the state continue pushing youth into a dead-end of repression, or will it hear their voices? This drama with arrests and protests is just the tip of the iceberg of problems troubling society. What do you think? Were the students really planning violence, or is this just another political game? Drop a comment and let your voice be heard!
Source: Higher Public Prosecutor’s Office Belgrade, Tanjug, Blic
Note: This text is based solely on available information from relevant sources, without additional speculation or fabrication.
