Independent trade union: Threatening the police is an attack on the state

The Independent Police Union of Montenegro announced that unauthorized monitoring and recording of security personnel is not only an attack on an individual in terms of endangering their security, but also a direct attack on the integrity of the system's institutions, the rule of law and the overall security of the state.

"Regarding the publication of a video footage that claims to show the movement of the vehicle of the Director of the Police Directorate, which implies that he was the subject of secret surveillance and unauthorized filming using a drone, the Independent Police Union of Montenegro strongly condemns this action, which represents a serious security, institutional and social problem," the union said in a statement.

They point out that it is particularly concerning that such activities are carried out against people who are responsible for the safety of citizens, the fight against crime, and the maintenance of public order and peace on a daily basis.

"If those who protect the state and its citizens can be targets of unlawful surveillance, then this is an issue that goes beyond an individual incident and requires an urgent and decisive institutional response. We demand that all competent state authorities - primarily the security authorities, the prosecutor's office and other institutions of the system - conduct a thorough, professional and impartial investigation without delay, identify the instigators, perpetrators and possible aides, and that legally prescribed measures be taken against all those responsible."

In Nezavisno, the union demands more energetic and systematic action by the state to protect every member of the police service - regardless of rank, function or position - from a police officer on the street to the director of the police.

"Attack, pressure, illegal surveillance or endangerment of any police officer must be treated as an attack on the institution and legal order of the state. We expect a clear and unambiguous reaction from the state, because the protection of those who protect citizens must be the absolute priority of every serious and responsible society. If we view police officers as replaceable numbers, and their lives as less valuable, then we as a society and people are in a serious problem. Crime and criminals should be made clear that the state stands behind every police officer who performs their duty honestly and professionally," it was announced.

They add that the safety of police officers means the safety of citizens, and that this is a basic condition for the normal functioning of any society.

"The Independent Police Union of Montenegro announces that it will not remain silent in the face of any attempt to threaten the security, dignity and professional integrity of police officers. It is our obligation to stand up for the protection of every member of the service - from a trainee police officer to a police director - because only a protected, respected and institutionally supported police officer can fully protect citizens and the state. We remain consistent and unwavering in the fight for the security of Montenegrin society and the reputation and rights of every police officer."