Deputy Prime Minister Aleksa Bečić, Minister of the Interior Danilo Šaranović, and Acting Director of the Police Administration Lazar Šćepanović, visited the Regional Security Centre “South” in Bar, where they were welcomed by the Head of the Centre, Petar Rolović, along with officers from the Bar Security Department.

During the visit, Deputy Prime Minister Bečić highlighted the occasion as a chance to convey strong support and appreciation for all honorable and professional members of the Police Administration who serve the people and the state of Montenegro with sincerity. He praised them as exemplary figures for younger generations, acknowledging their unwavering efforts—often at considerable personal risk—that have resulted in significant milestones in the struggle against serious and organized crime.

Bečić stated that Montenegro, under the leadership of the current Police and Ministry of Interior management, is showcasing through substantial actions and real outcomes that everyone is treated equally under the law.

“No police officer connected to criminal networks or engaged in illegal activities will remain within the Police Administration. Those who serve honorably—you represent the future of this system. However, those who have exploited the uniform to shield the mafia will no longer wear it,” he added.

He reiterated that the process of purging the security sector of criminal, corrupt, and illegal influences is irreversible. “We anticipate full support and collaboration from all participants within the institutional framework, as we must all contribute to restoring and upholding the integrity of the security sector. It is essential that the honorable uniform and badge never again become tools for criminal or mafia factions,” he emphasized.

Bečić also mentioned that the public call for the recruitment of 815 new police officers is nearing completion. “It is vital that we properly recognize and value the contributions of those already within the system—our experienced officers who carry out their responsibilities diligently, honorably, and professionally. Simultaneously, we need to introduce a strong wave of young professionals ready to flourish in a healthy value system,” he noted.

He underscored the necessity of ongoing efforts to eliminate all forms of illicit influence within the security sector. “We need a system that upholds and promotes values of character, integrity, public trust, accountability, and bravery,” Bečić concluded.

Minister Šaranović indicated that the visit was not merely ceremonial but operational—centered on information exchange and addressing specific security challenges.

“We are ending a difficult legacy and constructing a system resilient to infiltration by criminal interests,” said the Minister, noting that while previous administrations were allied with the mafia, the current leadership stands firmly with honorable police officers and the citizens of Montenegro.

He announced the revitalization of intervention units and the enhancement of rapid response capabilities, assuring complete support for police officers aiming to improve working conditions and foster greater public trust.

Acting Director of the Police Administration Šćepanović reiterated that the internal battle against corruption is not yet concluded.

“The vast majority of officers perform their roles with dignity and accountability, but a few have stained the police profession through their connections with organized crime. To them, I say—this internal cleansing process will reach you as well,” he added.

He pointed out the longstanding neglect of working conditions but assured that the current leadership is devoted to rectifying this issue.

Šćepanović praised the achievements of the “South” Regional Centre but stressed the necessity for additional staffing and technical resources, especially with the tourist season approaching. He announced that, starting mid-May, the Special Police Unit would be permanently stationed along the coast.

Regarding recent suspensions, he delivered a clear message: “Those on the mafia’s payroll will be expected to return the badge they have disgraced.”

Petar Rolović, Head of the “South” Regional Centre, noted that in the past month in Bar, the crime clearance rate for cases with unknown perpetrators reached 99 percent—an unparalleled result in the history of the Police Administration. He emphasized that the security situation remains stable and that officers are working tirelessly to maintain it.