Every police officer linked to criminal organizations will be removed from the Police Directorate.
Photo: Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for Security, Defense, Fight against Crime and Internal Policy
Deputy Prime Minister of Montenegro for Security, Defense, Fight against Crime and Internal Policy Aleksa Bečić, along with Minister of Internal Affairs Danilo Šaranović and Acting Director of the Police Administration Lazar Šćepanović, visited the Regional Security Center “South” in Bar. They were welcomed by the Head of the Center, Petar Rolović, and the Bar Security Department officers, as announced by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.
During the visit, Bečić expressed gratitude to the dedicated members of the Police Directorate, emphasizing their role as role models for the younger generations who aspire to strengthen the Police. He acknowledged their efforts and willingness to take risks in the fight against serious and organized crime.
“Here in Montenegro, this Police management and the Ministry of Internal Affairs demonstrate that justice applies to everyone. No police officer involved with criminal activities will remain in the Directorate. Those who serve honorably represent the future of this system. Those who abused their positions for crime will no longer wear the uniform!” Bečić declared.
He reiterated that the purging of the security sector from crime and corruption remains a priority and is a relentless process.
“We expect all stakeholders to assist and collaborate in this cleansing effort, ensuring the honorable uniform remains untarnished by criminal elements,” he added.
The successful recruitment drive for 815 new police officers is nearing completion.
“It’s crucial to recognize and appreciate the hard work of our seasoned staff while also bringing in fresh talent ready to thrive within a values-based system,” Bečić noted.
He emphasized the continuous need to cleanse all areas of the security sector from unauthorized influences.
“We demand a system that respects and values integrity, public trust, accountability, and courage,” he stated.
Šaranović remarked that the visit was not merely ceremonial but aimed at addressing specific security challenges.
“We are closing a troubled chapter and constructing a system that removes any possibility of criminal infiltration in police ranks,” Šaranović stated, indicating that while the previous leadership was aligned with crime, the current administration stands with honorable police officers and the citizens of Montenegro.
He announced plans to revive intervention units and bolster emergency response capabilities, assuring police officers that their working conditions and public trust would be his priorities.
Lazar Šćepanović, Director of the Police Administration, asserted that the fight against corruption within the police continues:
“The vast majority of police officers work honorably and responsibly, yet there are some who have tarnished our profession by associating with crime. I assure you, the cleansing process will reach them!”
He highlighted the longstanding neglect of improving working conditions and the current leadership’s commitment to rectify this.
Šćepanović praised the achievements of RCB “Jug” and called for additional personnel and resources ahead of the tourist season.
He indicated that from mid-May, the Special Police Unit would maintain a constant presence along the coast, and sent a clear message regarding suspensions:
“Those working for the mafia must return the badge they have disgraced,” Šćepanović stated.
Petar Rolović, the head of RCB “Jug,” reported a remarkable 99 percent resolution rate of crimes involving unknown perpetrators in Bar recently, marking a significant milestone for the Police Directorate. He affirmed that the security situation remains stable as officers work tirelessly to uphold it.
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