Protests in Serbia lead to arrests

In the heart of Serbia, the city of Novi Sad witnessed a series of dramatic events during anti-government protests on the night of September 6. The Vice-Premier and Minister of Internal Affairs, Ivica Dačić, announced these developments, reporting that more than 150 police officers were injured and 42 protesters were detained.

The action unfolded outside the building of the philosophical faculty in Novi Sad. Protesters, many of whom were students and citizens opposed to the ruling SNS party, gathered in large numbers on the evening of September 5. As the night progressed, masked individuals began throwing stones, escalating the situation. The police responded with tear gas and batons.

Clashes began at the entrance to the faculty around 21:35 (22:35 Moscow time). Protesters, their faces hidden behind helmets and masks, used sticks, rods, paint, pyrotechnics, and flares during the protests. Regrettably, one service pistol was taken from a police officer, as reported by Ivica Dačić.

The violence did not stop there. Eighteen police vehicles were damaged during the protests. Law enforcement began dispersing protesters into the streets, using special means.

The Russian Ambassador to Belgrade, Alexander Botsan-Kharchenko, made a statement suggesting that the EU was initially involved in the crisis in Serbia. He cited the appeals of the Serbian opposition and protesters to the European Union and Western countries to act as intermediaries in resolving the crisis.

These events were reported by RIA Novosti. The situation remains tense in Novi Sad, and it is hoped that a peaceful resolution can be found to bring an end to the unrest.