An unusual security incident has marked preparations for the EU–Western Balkans Summit in Tivat, after Montenegrin authorities denied entry to 87 Serbian citizens who arrived on a charter flight from Belgrade.
According to Montenegro’s security institutions, the individuals were identified as persons of security interest, and their presence on Montenegrin territory was assessed as a potential threat to public order and national security ahead of one of the country’s most significant international events.
The flight landed at Tivat Airport on Wednesday morning, but following security checks and verifications conducted by law enforcement agencies, authorities decided to return all passengers to Belgrade just a few hours later.
In a joint statement, Montenegro’s Police Directorate and National Security Agency announced that the measures were taken following an analysis of operational and intelligence information, which they said clearly indicated that the presence of these individuals in Montenegro could pose a risk to the country’s stability.
Authorities stated that entry bans had been issued against the group and that additional procedures would be initiated to prevent their entry into Montenegro in the future.
Suspicions of Destabilization During the Summit
According to Montenegrin media reports, security services suspect that the group intended to organize unofficial activities and gatherings during the summit, potentially creating tensions and incidents that could damage Montenegro’s image in front of European Union representatives.
Media reports further suggest that the organizers sought to send a political message at a time when Montenegro is attempting to present itself as a reliable European Union partner and as a country capable of ensuring the security of major international events.
Montenegrin authorities have not publicly presented concrete evidence to support these claims but insist that the decision was based on professional security assessments.
What Was Discovered During the Searches?
Police reported that inspections of several passengers uncovered banners bearing the slogan “Serbia Wins,” remote communication equipment, and radio communication devices.
Authorities also seized two buses with Serbian license plates, which were allegedly intended to transport members of the group after their arrival in Tivat.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have stated that all circumstances surrounding the organization of the trip are being examined.
Strong Reactions in Serbia
The incident has sparked significant reactions within Serbia’s political scene, particularly among opposition parties.
Opposition representatives raised concerns that some of those returned from Montenegro were individuals known to law enforcement authorities and allegedly connected to hooligan groups or informal security structures.
Opposition SSP official Marinika Tepić published the names of those deported from Montenegro, claiming that several have criminal records and have been involved in incidents during protests and public gatherings in Serbia.
Opposition lawmaker Borko Stefanović described the affair as a diplomatic scandal and demanded explanations regarding the organization of the charter flight and the identities of those traveling to Montenegro.
Meanwhile, Zdravko Ponoš sharply criticized Serbian authorities, arguing that the incident had damaged Serbia’s reputation across the region.
Silence from Serbian Authorities
As of the time of reporting, there had been no official reaction from Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, the Serbian Government, or Serbia’s Ministry of Interior regarding the return of the group from Tivat.
The lack of an official response has fueled further speculation in both Montenegrin media and political circles.
Bečić: We Will Not Tolerate Any Threat to Security
Montenegro’s Deputy Prime Minister for Security, Aleksa Bečić, defended the actions of state institutions, stating that the security system had acted professionally and effectively.
He emphasized that Montenegro remains open to visitors and international delegations, but no one can enter its territory without undergoing the necessary security procedures and checks.
“Our institutions will respond to any potential threat and will not allow anyone to exploit international events for activities that undermine public order and security,” Bečić said.
Tight Security Measures for the Summit
As part of preparations for the EU–Western Balkans Summit, Montenegrin police have implemented enhanced security measures in several cities, including Tivat, Podgorica, Kotor, Budva, Herceg Novi, and Cetinje.
The use of drones has been prohibited for three consecutive days in areas where official summit activities will take place. Temporary traffic restrictions and road closures have also been introduced on several major routes.
Additional restrictions have been imposed on maritime traffic in the Bay of Kotor and around Porto Montenegro, where foreign delegations are expected to stay.
Montenegrin authorities stated that all measures have been introduced to ensure the smooth running of the summit and the safety of participants.
