Shots Fired Outside Serbian Parliament Leaves Man Seriously Injured

A man sustained serious injuries after shots were fired outside the Serbian Parliament in Belgrade on October 4, 2023. The incident occurred near a tent set up by supporters of President Aleksandar Vucic, leading to one arrest as police secured the area. According to local media and officials, the president described the situation as a “terrorist act” during a separate government event he was attending at the time.

The shooting unfolded in a park situated between the parliament and Vucic’s office, where supporters had established tents to deter protesters. Notably, there were no demonstrations occurring at the moment of the shooting. Eyewitness accounts and videos shared online depicted armed security officers approaching the tents as a man fled the scene. Footage revealed that several shots were fired, followed by a fire igniting within the tent, which was quickly extinguished.

Reports from Telegraf.rs indicate that a 70-year-old man shot a 57-year-old man in the leg before discharging a gas canister within the tent camp. Zlatibor Loncar, Serbia’s Health Minister, confirmed that the injured man required urgent surgery due to the severity of his wounds.

Videos verified by Reuters depicted the aftermath of the incident, showing a man lying on the ground with his hands restrained while surrounded by police officers. A reporter on the scene noted the presence of fire engines and law enforcement personnel securing the area. While local police did not provide detailed comments, one officer assured that “there is no danger anymore.”

The shooting comes amidst ongoing tensions in Serbia, where large street protests have persisted for over a year. These demonstrations were initially sparked by the collapse of a train station awning in Novi Sad last November, which resulted in the deaths of 16 individuals. Many citizens attribute this tragedy to government negligence and corruption, fueling public dissent against Vucic’s administration.

As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, the focus remains on the impact of political unrest in Serbia and the implications for public safety in the region.