Montenegro is in mourning following a tragic mass shooting that occurred on New Year’s Day in the town of Cetinje, claiming the lives of 12 individuals, including two children. The incident has sparked national outrage and calls for stricter gun control measures as the country grapples with the aftermath of this senseless violence.

Key Takeaways

  • A total of 12 people were killed, including two children, in a shooting spree in Cetinje.
  • The shooter, Aco Martinović, took his own life after the attack.
  • The Montenegrin government is considering stricter gun laws and measures to confiscate illegal firearms.
  • A memorial service and candlelight vigils have been held to honor the victims.

The Incident

On January 1, 2025, a 45-year-old man opened fire at a restaurant in Cetinje, a town with a population of approximately 13,000. The shooting spree lasted over 30 minutes and spanned five different locations, resulting in the deaths of 12 people, including seven men, three women, and two children aged 7 and 9. At least four others were injured during the attack.

The shooter, identified as Aco Martinović, reportedly began his rampage after a bar brawl. Following the shooting, he attempted to flee but ultimately shot himself when surrounded by police. This incident marks the second mass shooting in Cetinje in less than three years, raising serious concerns about public safety in the region.

National Mourning and Response

In response to the tragedy, Montenegrin Prime Minister Milojko Spajić announced three days of national mourning. A memorial service was held in Cetinje, attended by family members of the victims, political leaders, and citizens. Mayor Nikola Đurašković expressed the community’s grief, stating, "This is not just a loss for the families; this is a loss for all of us."

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Additionally, candlelight vigils were organized, where residents gathered to honor the victims by standing in silence for 12 minutes, symbolizing the number of lives lost. The community’s solidarity was evident as participants laid flowers and lit candles in remembrance.

Calls for Action

The shooting has reignited debates over gun control in Montenegro, a country with a high rate of firearm ownership. Reports indicate that Montenegro ranks sixth in the world for the number of illegal weapons per capita, with approximately 245,000 firearms in circulation, including 140,000 unregistered.

In light of the recent violence, the Montenegrin government is considering implementing stricter gun laws. Proposed measures include:

  • Mandatory psychological evaluations for registered gun owners.
  • A two-month amnesty period for individuals to surrender illegal firearms without facing penalties.
  • Severe penalties for those found in possession of illegal weapons after the amnesty period.

Regional Solidarity

The tragedy has also prompted expressions of solidarity from neighboring countries. Serbia declared January 5 as a national day of mourning in honor of the victims. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić called for increased efforts to combat illegal firearms and enhance security measures in the region.

As Montenegro navigates this difficult time, the focus remains on healing and ensuring that such a tragedy does not occur again. The community’s resilience and unity in the face of adversity will be crucial as they work towards a safer future for all citizens.

Sources

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