Three Montenegrin citizens arrested in Kosovo on November 24, 2024, following celebrations at the Visoki Dečani Monastery, have been released, lawyer Jovana Filipović confirmed. The arrests stemmed from the display of a „Kosovo is Serbia“ inscription on their license plate frame, over which they were accused of „inciting hatred and intolerance.“
The individuals in question are two Montenegrin Army soldiers, identified by their initials R.K. and D.L., and another Montenegrin citizen, M.J. They had been in custody for nearly two months before their release.
Filipović confirmed the development but refrained from providing further details, stating, “For now, we can only confirm that they have been released from custody.”
During the legal process, Filipović highlighted what she called “unequal treatment and discrimination.” She drew attention to the lack of response to certain statements from Kosovo officials, such as „Kosovo is Albania.“
Allegations of Unequal Treatment
The men were initially detained for 48 hours before being placed under a 30-day detention order. Filipović argued that the charges were unfounded, noting that the controversial inscription was initially covered with tape, and it remained unclear who removed it.
Political and Public Reactions
The arrests drew sharp criticism from various quarters. The Serbian List, a political party in Kosovo representing the Serbian minority, condemned the detentions.
Political figures from Montenegro and the Budimlja-Nikšić Diocese of the Serbian Orthodox Church also called for the men’s release.
In Montenegro, the arrests sparked protests, including a demonstration in Podgorica organized by the Orthodox youth of Nikšić.
The country’s Minister of Defense confirmed that two of the detainees were Montenegrin soldiers and pledged a thorough investigation, adding, „This is not a matter of sweeping things under the rug.“
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