In response to the testimony from Ministry of Internal Affairs (MUP) officer Milan Paunović before the Inquiry Board, where he asserted that former commander of the Special Anti-Terrorist Unit (SAJ) and police chief Veselin Veljović was responsible for creating the so-called “black threes” that targeted political adversaries of the previous regime, Veljović’s attorney, Mihailo Volkov, contested Paunović’s claims as untrue.

Volkov pointed out that police and prosecutorial investigations related to similar claims had been conducted, but no evidence supported such allegations.

“With Mr. Veljović’s appointment as head of the Police Directorate, Paunović was removed from his position as assistant director for borders and seems to have personal grievances and a desire for revenge,” stated Veljović’s legal counsel.

He mentioned that he would pursue legal action against Paunović’s testimony today.

“It raises the question of why Mr. Paunović has never communicated this or similar information to the relevant prosecutor’s office, yet is now making these allegations in a politically charged context. The implication is likely clear.”

“Moreover, why did Mr. Paunović refrain from discussing that this SAJ commander survived an attack in early 1998, after defending the Government building from violent protests, an event reported by both local and regional media, in which an explosive device was placed under his vehicle?” Volkov concluded.

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