A tragic mass shooting in Cetinje, Montenegro, has left 12 people dead, prompting the government to take urgent action on gun control. The shooter, Aco Martinović, opened fire following a bar brawl, raising serious concerns about the country’s gun culture and the effectiveness of its security measures.
Key Takeaways
- A mass shooting in Cetinje resulted in 12 fatalities, including two children.
- The shooter, Aco Martinović, used an illegal firearm and later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
- The Montenegrin government is considering stricter gun control laws and measures to confiscate illegal weapons.
- This incident marks the second mass shooting in Cetinje in less than three years, raising alarms about public safety.
Overview of the Incident
On January 1, 2025, Aco Martinović, a 45-year-old man, initiated a shooting spree in the western town of Cetinje after a confrontation at a local bar. The attack resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals, including his sister and two children, and left four others seriously injured. Martinović, who was known for his erratic behavior and had a history of violence, ultimately turned the gun on himself after the rampage.
Government Response
In response to this horrific event, Montenegro’s Prime Minister Milojko Spajić convened an emergency session of the National Security Council. The meeting focused on implementing stricter gun laws and addressing the widespread issue of illegal firearms in the country. Key proposals include:
- New Gun Laws: Introduction of stricter criteria for gun ownership and carrying.
- Confiscation of Illegal Weapons: A two-month amnesty period for individuals to surrender illegal firearms without penalty.
- Increased Security Checks: Mandatory psychological evaluations for current gun owners.
- Enhanced Police Presence: Recruitment of additional police officers to improve public safety.
The Gun Culture in Montenegro
Montenegro has a deeply ingrained gun culture, ranking sixth globally in the number of illegal weapons per capita. This cultural backdrop complicates efforts to enforce stricter gun control measures. The recent shooting has reignited debates about the effectiveness of the country’s security institutions and their ability to prevent such tragedies.
Public Reaction
The shooting has sparked outrage and grief across Montenegro. Vigils were held in memory of the victims, with citizens lighting candles and calling for accountability from the government. Protests erupted in Podgorica, where demonstrators demanded the resignation of top security officials, expressing frustration over the lack of preventive measures following previous incidents.
Historical Context
This incident is not isolated; it follows another mass shooting in Cetinje in August 2022, where ten people were killed, including two children. The recurrence of such violence has raised critical questions about the state’s preparedness to handle gun-related issues and the overall safety of its citizens.
Conclusion
As Montenegro grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, the government faces immense pressure to enact meaningful reforms in gun control and public safety. The community’s call for change reflects a growing demand for a safer society, free from the fear of gun violence. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining how effectively Montenegro can address these pressing issues and prevent future tragedies.
Sources
- Montenegro to tackle gun control after mass killing left 12 dead, AP News.
- Gunman kills 12 in Montenegro small-town rampage, Reuters.
- At least 10 people killed in shooting in Montenegro, AP News.
- Montenegro to tackle gun control after mass killing left 12 dead, VOA – Voice of America English News.
- Gunman kills at least 10 people, including 2 children, in Montenegro, PBS.
