Thousands of student-led protesters marched in Belgrade on September 8, demanding that Serbian authorities hold police accountable for violence during recent anti-government demonstrations, RFE reports.
The rally was fueled by anger over alleged police brutality and President Aleksandar Vučić’s refusal to call snap elections. Protesters chanted slogans such as “He is Finished,” accusing the government of suppressing dissent.
Student Aleksandra Nikolić told RFE/RL she was beaten with a police baton while lying on the ground, leaving her with serious injuries to her head and mouth. Another protester, Nikolina Sinđelić, recounted being beaten and sexually harassed after detention, while accusing state media of spreading lies to justify the violence.
Protesters also reported being targeted with tear gas and rubber bullets. In a symbolic act, demonstrators splashed red paint outside the headquarters of a special police unit.
The protests come after the collapse of a train station roof in Novi Sad killed 16 people, triggering public outrage and regular demonstrations. On September 5, police used force to disperse crowds at Novi Sad University, injuring dozens.
While police have denied allegations of brutality, insisting they acted “lawfully and professionally,” demonstrators and rights advocates say the judiciary must act.
“The prosecutor’s office should react. It’s the last line of defense,” one protester said.
Lawyers and civic groups have questioned why there have been no prosecutions and criticized the Ministry of Interior’s Internal Control for failing to act.
Vučić, who maintains close ties with Moscow, has stepped up his crackdown as calls for accountability grow louder.
