Milorad Žižić has been arrested once again in an operation conducted by the Special State Prosecutor’s Office (SDT) and the Police Directorate (SPO). This development has reignited discussions surrounding the integrity of police officers and their alleged ties to organized crime in Montenegro.
Boris Bogdanović, the President of the Democratic Party of Socialists’ Parliamentary Club, expressed serious concerns regarding the atmosphere that has allowed certain police officers to evade scrutiny. He stated that some media outlets and organizations have previously portrayed Žižić as a victim, contributing to a narrative that obscured accountability.
The recent arrest raises questions about previous decisions made by the SDT. Notably, on March 20, 2018, an investigation led by then-Director Milivoje Katnić concluded that there was “no evidence” linking Žižić to any criminal groups. Bogdanović described this decision as emblematic of a broader issue where the justice system appeared to protect, rather than prosecute, criminal behavior. He emphasized that this pattern of protection has damaged public trust in law enforcement.
As the investigation unfolds, Bogdanović questioned how much time has been lost due to inadequate oversight. He pointed out that many police officials whose integrity has been called into question were consistently defended by political allies before any thorough investigations could take place.
The implications of this situation extend beyond individual arrests. Bogdanović criticized the creation of parallel power structures within the security sector, suggesting that some officers were treated as “heroes” despite serious allegations against them. He highlighted the use of political and media platforms to downplay suspicions, which he argued undermines public interest.
In his closing remarks, Bogdanović asserted that Montenegro stands out as a country where certain police officers have received unwarranted protection from various institutional powers. This, he argued, is not merely a conflict with specific individuals but rather a challenge to the culture of impunity that has been allowed to persist for too long.
As the situation develops, the focus will remain on the broader implications for law enforcement and the justice system in Montenegro, particularly in relation to organized crime and accountability.
