The surveillance of Serbian police inspector Slobodan Milenković has sparked serious concerns about the alleged misuse of the country’s intelligence agency and potential threats to national security.
Milenković, who led the investigation into the major Jovanjica cannabis plantation case, reportedly noticed and overpowered a group of individuals who had been following and monitoring his movements. The individuals were later identified as agents of the Security Information Agency (BIA).
The incident has raised alarm because Milenković is already under protection from the Special Anti-Terrorist Unit due to threats against his life. Despite this, the intelligence agency allegedly conducted surveillance on him, and it remains unclear whether the measures were legally authorized.
Critics Warn of Pressure on Officers Who Exposed Jovanjica
Analysts and observers say the situation reflects continued pressure on police officers who uncovered the Jovanjica case, considered one of the largest marijuana plantations discovered in this part of Europe.
Journalist Vuk Cvijić described the situation as deeply worrying, noting that Milenković had previously filed official reports about a planned assassination attempt and alleged bribery attempts aimed at covering up the Jovanjica affair.
According to Cvijić, state institutions failed to take action, leaving the officers who exposed the case without adequate institutional support.
He also warned that the elite Special Anti-Terrorist Unit (SAJ) has changed significantly since the dismissal of its long-time commander Spasoje Vulević, suggesting the unit is increasingly being used for political purposes rather than professional security operations.
Security Experts Warn of Threats to Inspector’s Safety
Retired organized crime inspector Predrag Simonović said the incident raises serious security concerns, particularly given the history of surveillance abuses in Serbia.
Simonović noted that Milenković has already intercepted individuals monitoring him on multiple occasions, all of whom turned out to be BIA agents.
He warned that the situation recalls the Slavko Ćuruvija murder case, where the journalist was tracked by state security agents before being assassinated in 1999.
Accusations of Political Use of Intelligence Services
Lawyer Nikola Lakić criticized the intelligence agency’s actions, arguing that the BIA is increasingly being used as a political tool rather than a national security institution.
According to Lakić, the agency has allegedly been involved in monitoring political opponents, questioning citizens, and attempting to influence prosecutorial structures.
He further claimed that Aleksandar Vučić is using the intelligence service as a “praetorian guard” to protect political power, allegations that government officials have repeatedly denied.
Third Incident of Surveillance
Reports indicate that this is the third time Milenković has personally detected and stopped individuals following him, all of whom were reportedly members of the BIA.
Both Milenković and fellow inspector Dušan Mitić have been under police protection since September 2023, after authorities assessed that their lives were at risk due to their involvement in the Jovanjica investigation.
However, the inspectors recently requested a meeting with police leadership to discuss increased security threats, but according to reports, the meeting has yet to take place.
Growing Debate Over Intelligence Oversight
The case has intensified debate in Serbia about oversight of intelligence agencies and the protection of officers involved in high-profile corruption investigations.
Critics argue that if the surveillance was conducted without a court order, it could represent a serious violation of the law and abuse of state power.
