Security Advisor Questions New Appointment in National Agency

Concerns have arisen regarding the appointment of Drago Spicanovic as the head of the Counterintelligence Service within the Agency for National Security (ANB). Dejan Vuksic, an advisor to the President on security and defense, stated that Spicanovic was granted immediate access to classified information shortly after his appointment. Vuksic’s comments were made during an appearance on Aplus Television, where he emphasized the significance of this decision.

Vuksic, who previously led the ANB, highlighted the rapidity of Spicanovic’s appointment following the arrival of the former ANB director, Sava Kentera. He expressed concern over the motivations behind placing individuals in such pivotal roles within the security apparatus. Vuksic noted, “Spicanovic has never been an employee of the ANB. He came from another institution to lead the Counterintelligence Service, which raises questions about his qualifications.”

The former ANB chief called for an urgent meeting of the Security and Defense Committee to investigate how Spicanovic was appointed and to examine the security assessment that allowed him access to sensitive data. Vuksic insisted, “Complete documentation regarding this appointment must be submitted to the committee. Such matters cannot be left to chance.”

This development follows a morning operation by the Special Police Department (SPO), during which several former high-ranking police officials were detained, including businessman Aleksandar Mijajlovic and senior state prosecutor Andrijana Nastic. Reports have surfaced linking Spicanovic to controversial aspects of his previous tenure in various government roles.

Notably, Spicanovic is said to have been a schoolmate of Kentera, which raises further questions about the integrity of the selection process. Vuksic underscored the need for transparency, stating that Kentera should clarify who recommended Spicanovic for this significant role.

The unfolding situation casts a shadow over the ANB’s leadership and its approach to national security, prompting calls for accountability and due diligence in appointments that affect the safety of the nation. The outcome of the Security and Defense Committee’s inquiry may have profound implications for the integrity of the agency and its operations moving forward.