STEGA Denies Knowledge of Criminal Charges Against Citizens

A non-governmental organization, STEGA, has stated it has not been informed through any official documents regarding criminal charges filed against citizens, which, according to media reports, have already been dismissed. The organization expressed concern that police have inaccurately labeled it as an NGO, despite STEGA’s confirmation that it does not hold that legal status.

In a statement, STEGA highlighted that, instead of conducting internal investigations regarding the actions of plainclothes officers towards assembled citizens, authorities have initiated charges against 35 citizens of Podgorica. This decision follows an incident where excessive and unprofessional use of pepper spray reportedly harmed many, particularly targeting older individuals and women.

Five months after the incident in Gorica, the police have now moved forward with these charges. STEGA pointed out the troubling timing of this announcement, which coincides with its activities commemorating December 19, the day when partisan units liberated Podgorica from fascist forces and local collaborators during World War II.

In response to these developments, STEGA convened an urgent meeting of its editorial board to strategize on informing relevant international bodies, including the United States embassies and members of the Quint group, as well as the European Union delegation in Podgorica. The organization aims to raise awareness about the ongoing situation and the implications for civil society in Montenegro.

This incident raises significant questions about the handling of protests and the protection of citizens’ rights within the region. As STEGA continues to advocate for transparency and accountability, it remains to be seen how authorities will respond to these serious allegations.