The Basic State Prosecutor’s Office (ODT) in Pljevlja has initiated an investigation concerning the temporary confiscation of approximately 40,000 euros at the Ranče border crossing, just prior to last week’s local elections in Nikšić and Herceg Novi.

The ODT informed “Vijesti” that an investigation has commenced “where all essential measures and actions are being taken to ascertain whether any individual’s actions involve elements of a criminal offense that is prosecuted ex officio, and for which this prosecutor’s office has jurisdiction.”

On April 10, the Police Directorate seized about 40,000 euros at the Ranče border crossing.

“The cash was temporarily confiscated for further examination,” the Police Directorate confirmed to “Vijesti” the following day, responding to inquiries about the truth of the 40,000 euros being seized at the “Ranče” border checkpoint, whether the purpose of the cash was ascertained, or whether it was related to the elections held on April 13, as suggested by representatives from the European Union.

Subsequently, the police indicated that as part of intensified checks at border crossings, officers conducted inspections on two vehicles “carrying five individuals, all citizens of Montenegro, upon their entry into the country at the Ranče border crossing.”

“A search of their belongings uncovered funds, with amounts not exceeding 10,000 euros for four individuals, except for one who possessed 10,035 euros and 2,180 dinars,” they stated.

Nikola Zirojević, a candidate from the European Alliance list in the Nikšić elections, previously mentioned at a press conference that, “to the best of their knowledge,” the funds were intended “for the campaign needs of Marko Kovačević.”

Kovačević was the leader of the “For the Future of Nikšić” list, which garnered 14,381 votes (34.64 percent or 15 seats) in the elections on Sunday, and stands a good chance of forming a government in coalition with partners from the state government, the Europe Now Movement, and the Democrats.

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