The Montenegrin Ministry of Defense has confirmed that disciplinary measures have been taken against soldier Rajko Krivokapić, while proceedings against his colleague Dragutin Ljallatović (Lalatović) were suspended after he resigned from the Montenegrin Army (VCG).
Krivokapić and Ljallatović were arrested in Kosovo in November 2024 after police discovered the inscription “Kosovo is Serbia” on their vehicle’s license plates near the Deçan Monastery. They were detained along with Marinko Jovanović and later charged with “inciting hatred and intolerance.” The three spent 55 days in custody before being released in mid-January, when Kosovo’s Special Prosecutor’s Office suspended the investigation.
Ministry of Defense Statement
Montenegro’s Ministry of Defense, led by Dragan Krapović, told Vijesti that the cases of both soldiers had been reviewed following the completion of evidence proceedings and main hearings. The Chief of the General Staff issued decisions in line with the country’s military law.
- Ljallatović: The case was dropped after he ended his service at his own request, in line with disciplinary regulations.
- Krivokapić: Found responsible for a disciplinary offense. The Ministry did not specify the sanction but said it was imposed considering both mitigating and aggravating circumstances.
A source within the ministry suggested that Krivokapić was “likely fined,” though official confirmation of the penalty is still pending.
Background of the Case
The arrest of the Montenegrin soldiers in Kosovo sparked media attention in both Pristina and Podgorica, with the case seen as a sensitive test of Montenegro’s military discipline and its position toward Kosovo.
Although their initial detention was extended twice for 30 days, the soldiers were released seven days before the last extension expired. The following day, Kosovo’s prosecution formally suspended proceedings against them.
