On March 15, 2025, following protests in Belgrade, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić denied allegations that the Serbian Army and the Military Police Unit “Kobre” used a sound cannon during the demonstration. Some protesters claimed that the controversial weapon was deployed on the streets, but President Vučić dismissed these claims, stating that the sound cannon was never used.
In response to these allegations, Serbian Prime Minister in resignation, Miloš Vučević, expressed that the Serbian government was ready to invite both the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) for an investigation. “We are ready to immediately invite both the Americans and the Russians,” said Vučević during a media conference.
President Vučić announced that an investigation would be concluded within 48 hours regarding those who spread what he referred to as “lies” about the incident. He emphasized that sound cannons could not go unnoticed, insisting that no such weapon was used.
Vučić also explained that some people mistakenly believed that members of the “Kobrat” unit, stationed atop the Presidency building, were carrying a sound cannon. In reality, he clarified, they were carrying an anti-drone rifle.
During the protests, which were partly driven by demands for accountability over a deadly accident in Novi Sad, protesters claimed that the sound cannon was used while they were observing a 15-minute silence in memory of the 15 victims who died in the incident. However, both the Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Defense denied these accusations.
The European Commission has called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the alleged use of a sound cannon on peaceful protesters. Spokesperson Guillaume Mercier emphasized the need for a quick, transparent investigation and reminded Serbian authorities of their responsibility to protect the rights and safety of protesters under European human rights law.
In response, various opposition parties have filed criminal charges against officials involved, including claims about the illegal use of a sound cannon against peaceful citizens during the protest. The High Public Prosecutor’s Office in Belgrade has ordered investigations to identify individuals spreading false information regarding the alleged injuries caused by the sound cannon. The Center for Human Rights in Belgrade has also reported numerous citizens claiming to have experienced the effects of the sound cannon during the protest.
The protests continue as tensions rise, and the government prepares for further investigations with international assistance if necessary.
