Serbian Interior Ministry reacts to court releasing 7 persons suspected of attacking police officers in Uzice

Photo: Mateja Beljan

The Serbian Interior Ministry (MUP) on Monday expressed concern over the decision of the Basic Court in Uzice to release persons detained on suspicion of attacking police officers.

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The incidents happened during a public gathering on July 6 in Uzice, the organization of which had not been properly registered, the MUP said, adding that the court's decision sends a message to the public that attacking police officers, who are keeping citizens safe and maintaining public order and peace, is permitted and can go unpunished.

"We consider it inappropriate that the judiciary - as an independent branch, by making decisions to the detriment of police officers who perform their duty in a professional and lawful manner - is giving in to pressure from the public and by releasing (pending the outcome of court proceedings) suspects diminishes the gravity of the committed crime," the MUP's statement said, and added:

"This is especially true given the fact that some persons have spent several months in detention (suspected of) lesser crimes.

The Serbian Interior Ministry, which prioritizes the security of the country and all its citizens, at the same time advocates for absolute protection of its own members,who risk their lives every day protecting the constitutional order and the law.

This decision raises the question of what kind of message the court, whose task is to protect the legal order, is sending to police officers if attacks against them are treated in this way, bearing in mind that police officers are on duty every day to protect public order and peace and the safety of the citizens, including judges and prosecutors."

(Telegraf.rs)