Belgrade pulls 700-million-euro security plan as political tensions rise in Serbia
Belgrade pulled a 700-million-euro security proposal from its assembly agenda amid opposition criticism, while Serbia considers selling illegal police sound devices.
The Belgrade City Assembly has withdrawn a controversial proposal regarding a 700-million-euro public-private partnership for municipal security services from its agenda. Opposition politicians had criticized the project, characterizing it as the creation of a private paramilitary force. City officials indicated the initiative would be reintroduced in future sessions. The decision coincided with Mayor Aleksandar Šapić alleging internal political attacks from within the ruling Serbian Progressive Party. Separately, Interior Minister Ivica Dačić announced that Serbia is considering selling its Long Range Acoustic Devices. The police acquired the acoustic cannons despite their operational use being prohibited under Serbian law, prompting criticism regarding procurement oversight.
Sources: N1