Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić rejected allegations that the special forces unit “Kobre” used a sound cannon during yesterday’s protests in Belgrade, claiming that these accusations were “shameful lies” and that what was seen was in fact an anti-drone rifle.
“I especially want to emphasize that the allegations of using a sound cannon are shameful. What can be seen in the footage is an anti-drone rifle, not any kind of crowd control device,” Vučić said in a public address.
He added that despite the “immense negative energy and anger” during the protest, there were no fatalities or severely injured individuals.
According to Vučić, 56 people sought medical assistance – 44 at the Emergency Center, 11 at the Clinical Hospital Center “Zvezdara,” and one in the hospital in Zemun.
“The most seriously injured person was involved in a brawl between protesters at Nikola Pašić Square. Although formally classified as serious injuries, their life is not in danger,” the president stated.
Vučić reported that 22 people were arrested for criminal offenses against property, highlighting the police’s role in maintaining order:
“I am proud of our police and security services, who have done a tremendous job these past days, ensuring the safety of all participants. Not only did we refrain from using excessive force – we didn’t even raise a baton today,” he stressed.
The protests, organized by student movements and opposition groups, took place in front of the Serbian Parliament and at Slavija Square, where demonstrators delivered speeches, sang the national anthem, and lit flares.
