Police officers in Berane and Bijelo Polje, in collaboration with the Crime Prevention Sector (SBPK) – the Department for the Suppression of Criminal Offenses related to Human Trafficking, People Smuggling, and Illegal Migration, successfully prevented the trafficking of a minor girl and her transfer out of Montenegro for the purpose of an illegal arranged marriage, as announced by the Police Directorate (UP) today.

The police noted that MI, the father of the minor, was arrested on suspicion of organizing a marriage for his daughter for 9,000 euros.

According to the statement, Berane police officers inspected a “VW Sharan” vehicle, driven by MI (41) from Berane, which contained his visibly distressed 15-year-old daughter.

“During the vehicle search, authorities discovered powers of attorney from both parents allowing travel abroad, along with the minor’s passport and ID card, a sum of 1,870 euros, clothing, personal belongings, and traditional Roma outfits,” the statement mentioned.

The UP went on to say that evidence suggested MI had previously arranged a marriage for his daughter for 9,000 euros, and was planning to take her to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) to hand her over to his daughter’s future father-in-law from Germany, who intended to take her to Germany for his son’s marriage.

“The affected minor was relocated to a safe location at the discretion of the police, in cooperation with the Center for Social Work. The prosecutor from the Higher State Prosecutor’s Office in Bijelo Polje was informed, and following their order, MI was detained under suspicion of committing human trafficking against his minor daughter,” the statement read.

The Police Directorate clarified that Montenegro’s criminal code prescribes a prison sentence ranging from three to fifteen years for the offense of human trafficking, particularly as harm to a minor constitutes a more severe form of this crime.

“The accused will be presented to the prosecutor’s office today for further legal proceedings,” stated the UP.

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