A new equipment donation worth $327,500 has been made to the Montenegrin Police Directorate by the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The delivery took place today during a ceremony in Danilovgrad.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MUP) disclosed that the donation encompasses specialized equipment, forensic tools, and detection devices that will significantly enhance the country’s capabilities in tackling the illegal possession, misuse, and trafficking of firearms, ammunition, and explosives.

Minister of Internal Affairs Danilo Šaranović remarked that this substantial donation not only contributes to bolstering the technical and forensic abilities of the Police Directorate but also reaffirms the strong partnership and trust that Montenegro has gained from its international allies.

“Through our collaborative efforts, we are enhancing the efficiency of our security framework and ensuring a safer society, further solidifying our commitment to meeting essential standards on our journey towards full European Union membership,” stated Šaranović.

The announcement details that the equipment—financed by the EU and procured based on a thorough needs assessment—includes X-ray scanners, metal detectors, crime scene investigation kits, forensic lighting, laboratory devices, and computers.

This method guarantees that the tools will adequately meet the operational demands of the Montenegrin criminal police.

Acting Director of the Police Administration Lazar Šćepanović emphasized that forensic work commences at the crime scene, where forensic technology gathers evidence.

“The quality of evidence relies heavily on expertise, equipment, and methodologies. Our responsibility is to deliver accurate, impartial, and scientifically backed evidence; the support we receive is the catalyst that enables us to perform this work to the highest quality standards using the latest technologies,” explained Šćepanović.

Šćepanović further stated that the Police Directorate remains fully committed to enhancing its capabilities, fostering collaboration with international partners, and diligently combatting all forms of crime, ultimately contributing to a safer and more equitable society for all citizens.

EU Ambassador to Montenegro Johan Sattler remarked that recent tragic incidents involving firearms have rattled Montenegro and the surrounding region, serving as solemn reminders of the dangers posed by illegal gun ownership and misuse—highlighting the significant work that remains to tackle this issue.

“The EU is a steadfast partner in supporting Montenegro’s initiatives to combat the illicit trafficking of firearms,” Sattler affirmed.

He noted that the specialized equipment handover to the criminal police signifies a critical stride towards fulfilling both local and international obligations—most importantly, towards ensuring the safety and security of citizens.

UNDP Resident Representative Ekaterina Paniklova underscored that the equipment handover is a vital aspect of the ongoing support that UNDP, via SEESAC, extends to the Montenegrin Police Directorate.

“We believe that sustainable solutions are essential for overcoming peace and security challenges. UNDP is committed to maintaining its partnership and continually supporting Montenegro in meeting its local, regional, and international responsibilities,” stated Paniklova.

The statement emphasized that this support directly contributes to achieving objective 3 of the Roadmap for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons in the Western Balkans, which aims at significantly reducing the risks associated with the proliferation and diversion of firearms, ammunition, and explosives.

“As part of this initiative, UNDP SEESAC continues to back jurisdictions across Southeastern and Eastern Europe in enhancing effective, accountable, and inclusive security institutions,” the statement added.

The Ministry of Interior highlighted that the donated equipment will improve the operational readiness of the criminal police, particularly in forensic investigations and emergency responses involving weapons and explosives—thereby further fortifying law enforcement and enhancing public safety nationwide.

“These efforts were financed by the European Union through Council Decision (CFSP) 2019/2111, as amended by Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/381, supporting SEESAC’s initiatives in disarmament and arms control in Southeast Europe, aimed at mitigating the threats posed by illicit small arms and light weapons and their ammunition,” stated the announcement.

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