Authorities in Montenegro have dismantled a network of individuals allegedly involved in foreign armed formations. The operation, named “Lugansk,” led to the arrest of a **61-year-old man from Danilovgrad**, identified as D.S., who is suspected of participation in illegal military activities linked to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The operation was executed by the Directorate of Police in collaboration with the Higher State Prosecutor’s Office in Podgorica and the Ministry of Defence’s Intelligence and Security Directorate. Over the past several months, law enforcement conducted extensive investigations to gather evidence against those allegedly violating international law by engaging in foreign military operations.
As part of this initiative, police conducted searches at **13 locations** across three cities: **Danilovgrad**, **Niksic**, and **Podgorica**. These searches resulted in the seizure of **24 firearms**, over **1,000 rounds of ammunition**, several knives, sabres, and bayonets, along with military uniforms, flags, and insignia from various military organizations.
According to reports, D.S. is believed to have unlawfully participated in military actions on behalf of the Russian Federation in **Lugansk**, Ukraine, between early **2023** and early **2025**. Authorities have linked him to substantial financial resources, including **€1.5 million** found in his bank account.
Details of the Operation
The police operation led to the identification and detention of **12 individuals**. Among them was **D.B.**, a **74-year-old resident of Danilovgrad**, detained for illegal possession of weapons and explosive materials. During the search of his property, police found a hunting rifle and **18 rounds of ammunition**.
Other arrests included **J.B.**, aged **64**, from Niksic, who was found with a **Zastava** M57 pistol, **27 rounds of ammunition**, and various military items. In separate searches, **Đ.V.** from Niksic was discovered with multiple firearms and ammunition, while **B.J.** from Danilovgrad had military uniforms and weapons.
The authorities are continuing to investigate additional suspects, with searches yielding further evidence. Police discovered communication devices, foreign passports, and membership cards linked to military groups. Notably, **V.B.**, aged **59**, in Podgorica, had **20 firearms** in his possession, which are under scrutiny for legality.
Ongoing Investigation and Future Actions
Montenegrin police have expressed their commitment to combatting modern security threats and have indicated that they will pursue further legal actions against those involved in these activities. The collected evidence will be forwarded to the Higher State Prosecutor’s Office for further examination.
This operation underscores Montenegro’s proactive stance against organized crime and illegal military engagement, with a focus on dismantling networks that pose a risk both domestically and internationally. The police aim to neutralize any illegal activities connected to organized crime groups operating within Montenegro and beyond.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities actively seeking one additional suspect, **Ž.O.** As the situation develops, law enforcement continues to emphasize the importance of addressing these high-stakes security challenges in cooperation with international partners.
