Montenegro is reeling from a devastating mass shooting that left 12 people dead, including two children, in the town of Cetinje on New Year’s Day. The incident has sparked widespread protests demanding accountability from government officials and a reassessment of the country’s gun laws.
Key Takeaways
- A mass shooting in Cetinje resulted in 12 fatalities, including children.
- The shooter, Aco Martinović, died by suicide after the attack.
- Protests erupted in Podgorica, with calls for the resignation of top security officials.
- The government has announced new gun control measures in response to the tragedy.
The Incident
On January 1, 2025, Aco Martinović, a 45-year-old man, opened fire in multiple locations in Cetinje after a bar altercation. The shooting spree began around 5:30 PM, resulting in the deaths of several patrons, including the bar owner and his children. Following the rampage, Martinović fled but later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound during a standoff with police.
The shooting has been described as one of the deadliest in Montenegro’s recent history, prompting national mourning and a reevaluation of public safety measures. Prime Minister Milojko Spajić expressed his condolences, stating that the incident has "shrouded our country in black."
Public Outcry
In the wake of the tragedy, thousands of citizens took to the streets of Podgorica on January 5, demanding the resignation of Interior Minister Danilo Saranović and Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić. Protesters chanted slogans such as "Your hands are bloody" and "Resignation," reflecting their anger over what they perceive as inadequate government response to the shooting.
The protests also highlighted broader concerns about public safety and gun control in Montenegro, a country with a high rate of gun ownership. Many citizens are calling for stricter regulations to prevent future tragedies.
Government Response
In response to the public outcry, the Montenegrin government has announced a series of new gun control measures. These include:
- Mandatory reverification of existing weapons licenses.
- Severe penalties for failing to surrender illegal firearms within a specified timeframe.
- Increased funding for law enforcement to address staff shortages.
Prime Minister Spajić emphasized the need for urgent action to protect citizens, stating that the government would explore all options to enhance public safety.
Conclusion
The mass shooting in Cetinje has not only claimed innocent lives but has also ignited a national conversation about gun control and public safety in Montenegro. As protests continue, the government faces mounting pressure to implement meaningful reforms to prevent such tragedies in the future. The events of January 1 will likely have lasting implications for the country’s policies and its citizens’ sense of security.
Sources:
- Portugal set for snap general election as PM faces confidence vote | Portugal, The Guardian.
- Mass shooting leaves ten dead including children, BBC.
- A gunman who went on a deadly shooting spree in Montenegro dies by suicide : NPR, NPR.
- Gunman who killed at least 12 people in Montenegro dies by suicide – NBC Bay Area, NBC Bay Area.
- Thousands In Montenegro Protest Response To Mass Shooting, Demand Resignations, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.
