The appointment of Marko Kričak as head of Serbia’s Criminal Police Directorate (UKP) has sparked widespread criticism, with observers arguing that the decision reflects political loyalty rather than professional merit.
Kričak, the former commander of the Unit for the Protection of Certain Persons and Facilities (JZO), was elevated to one of the most powerful positions within the police structure. Critics say his promotion followed violent crackdowns on students and citizens during protests, rather than a distinguished or transparent policing career.
A Position Reserved for the Most Experienced—In Theory
The role of UKP chief is traditionally considered the culmination of a long, unblemished law-enforcement career, reserved for highly qualified officers with decades of experience. However, analysts note that this standard has been systematically eroded in recent years.
According to critics, Kričak’s rise sends a clear message that professional integrity, legality, and experience are secondary to loyalty to the ruling regime, even when this loyalty allegedly involves violations of the law and the constitution.
Background and Rapid Advancement
Kričak is a native of Belgrade and the son of a former police officer who once headed a narcotics unit. Unlike his father, Kričak initially pursued a different path before joining the Security Information Agency (BIA) during the period when Bratislav Gašić led the intelligence service.
During that time, recruitment into BIA was reportedly conducted without public competition, enabling the intake of politically loyal personnel. Many of these individuals later transitioned into the Ministry of Interior (MUP)—again, without standard procedures or, in some cases, security vetting.
Among the most prominent figures transferred under this system was Dijana Hrkalović, but Kričak was also reportedly among those Gašić brought into the ministry.
Opaque Qualifications
To this day, Kričak’s educational background and formal police training remain undisclosed, including in the official announcement of his appointment. Despite this lack of transparency, he advanced rapidly within the JZO, a unit that has expanded its authority under the close supervision of former interior ministers Aleksandar Vulin and Bratislav Gašić.
Originally tasked with protecting high-ranking officials and foreign dignitaries, the JZO has increasingly been described as “a police force within the police,” complete with its own intelligence operations and special units.
Allegations of Brutality and Abuse
The JZO’s role became publicly visible in December 2023, following protests outside the Republic Electoral Commission (RIK) over alleged election irregularities. During those protests, Kričak and his unit were accused of excessive force, illegal detentions, and coercive interrogations, often accompanied by media narratives from pro-government outlets.
One notable case involved student Dragoslav Milojević, who later stated that he was physically abused and forced to sign a false confession. Audio recordings allegedly captured Kričak’s voice during the abuse, yet no disciplinary or criminal proceedings followed.
Protests After Novi Sad Tragedy
Following the collapse of a railway station canopy in Novi Sad on November 1, which killed 16 people, nationwide protests erupted over corruption and state negligence. As demonstrations intensified, reports of violence by JZO officers multiplied, with Kričak repeatedly named as a central figure.
Witnesses and victims have described arbitrary arrests, beatings, threats, illegal phone seizures, and interrogations outside official MUP facilities.
Threats and Alleged Torture
Multiple criminal complaints have reportedly been filed against Kričak, including allegations of torture and threats of sexual violence. Student activist Nikolina Sinđelić publicly stated that Kričak threatened her with rape during her detention near government buildings in August.
Despite the gravity of the allegations, no formal investigation has been launched. Senior officials—including Interior Minister Ivica Dačić, Police Director Dragan Vasiljević, and President Aleksandar Vučić—publicly defended Kričak, stating that he respected the Constitution and committed no disciplinary violations.
Legal and Constitutional Concerns
Under the Serbian Constitution and international conventions signed by Serbia, including those of the United Nations, torture and degrading treatment of detainees are strictly prohibited. Critics emphasize that authorities have failed to provide evidence, such as surveillance footage, to substantiate their defense of Kričak.
Observers argue that his appointment to head the UKP represents not only a personal promotion, but a systemic endorsement of abusive practices, raising serious concerns about the rule of law and police accountability in Serbia.
