An N1 news crew was the target of a physical attack last night in Vrbas, while the police deployed at the scene remained completely passive,” N1 said in a statement.
“We will report this latest incident—one in a series of increasingly frequent attacks on N1—to all relevant European institutions and media protection organizations. Additionally, we will initiate all legal procedures against the police officers responsible,” it added.
“An assistant cameraman was was hit by stones thrown from the offices of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS). It is especially concerning that fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices were fired at both journalists and assembled citizens, and tools and stones were thrown at them—all right before the eyes of the police.
“Despite these open threats, threats to the of safety, and interference with the work of visibly identified journalists, the police did nothing to stop the attacks, identify, or process the perpetrators. Once again, it is evident that the safety of journalists in Serbia depends on political will rather than legal obligations. That conduct constitutes a serious breach of duty, a violation of legal responsibilities, and a direct endangerment of our employees’ safety. For this reason, N1 television will today initiate proceedings against the police officers involved.
“We recall that, just the night before, our crew’s was obstructed by lasers pointed at the camera and reporter, accompanied by verbal abuse and open threats—including being called Ustasha. In the same location, masked individuals displayed the “slaughter” sign to our reporter—a message that leaves no room for misinterpretation.
“This is not an isolated incident. During the Vidovdan protest, our assistant cameraman was injured when a police officer, despite clearly visible press badges and identification, struck him twice with a baton. Neither at that time nor in numerous other cases did we receive any response, nor has anyone been held accountable. The brutal threats that our newsroom faces daily remain unpunished, and the perpetrators remain unidentified.
“We demand that the police immediately cease selective treatment of journalists and begin applying the law—protecting all journalists, identifying, and prosecuting the attackers regardless of their political affiliation or connection to the authorities. We will inform domestic and international organizations dedicated to media freedom and journalist safety about all these incidents, because the silence of institutions and the impunity granted to perpetrators directly threaten the public’s right to be informed,” the N1 statement said.
Source: N1
