In the wake of a devastating mass shooting in Cetinje, Montenegro, which left 13 people dead on New Year’s Day, students are taking to the streets to demand accountability from government officials. The tragedy has reignited discussions about public safety and the effectiveness of the country’s security measures.
Key Takeaways
- A mass shooting in Cetinje on January 1, 2025, resulted in 13 fatalities, including two children.
- Students are protesting for the resignation of key security ministers, citing inadequate government response.
- The protests reflect a broader concern about public safety and gun control in Montenegro.
The Tragic Incident
On January 1, 2025, Aco Martinovic unleashed a horrific shooting spree across five locations in Cetinje, killing 12 individuals, including two children, before taking his own life. The violence shocked the nation, marking the second mass shooting in the town in just over two years. In August 2022, another gunman killed 10 people in a similar incident.
The aftermath of the shooting has left the community in mourning, with residents expressing feelings of insecurity and fear. Many locals are still grappling with the emotional toll of the tragedy, as they remember the victims and the impact on their small town.
Student Protests
In response to the government’s handling of the situation, an informal group of students known as "Where Tomorrow?" has organized protests demanding the resignation of Interior Minister Danilo Saranovic and Deputy Prime Minister for Security Aleksa Becic. The students argue that the government has failed to take responsibility for the security lapses that led to the tragedy.
- Protest Actions: The students plan to block one road each day until their demands are met, starting at 17:26, the time the shooting began.
- Government Response: Prime Minister Milojko Spajic has stated that all ministers will be evaluated, but the students remain unsatisfied with the lack of immediate accountability.
Community Reaction
The community of Cetinje is united in its grief and anger. Many residents support the students’ demands for accountability, believing that the government must take moral responsibility for the failures that allowed such violence to occur.
- Public Sentiment: Residents have expressed disbelief that, after the first mass shooting in 2022, no significant changes were made to improve public safety.
- Increased Police Presence: Following the outcry, police presence in Cetinje has increased, but many question whether this will be enough to prevent future tragedies.
Government Measures
In the wake of the shooting, the Montenegrin government has announced plans to address gun control and public safety. Prime Minister Spajic has proposed a two-month amnesty for illegal weapons and pledged to review all gun licenses by 2026.
- Proposed Actions:
- Tighter prison sentences for illegal weapons possession.
- A comprehensive review of security protocols and police response times.
Despite these measures, many citizens feel that the government’s response is insufficient and that more decisive action is needed to ensure their safety.
Conclusion
The tragic events in Cetinje have sparked a significant movement among students and citizens alike, demanding accountability and change in the face of violence. As the community continues to mourn, the call for a safer Montenegro grows louder, highlighting the urgent need for effective measures to prevent future tragedies.
