Controversy Erupts Over Appointment of Drago Spičanović in Security Agency

The appointment of Drago Spičanović as head of the Counterintelligence Agency within the Agency for National Security (ANB) has sparked significant controversy. Dejan Vuksic, the security and defense advisor to the president, claims that Spičanović was granted expedited access to classified information shortly after his appointment. Vuksic asserts that this decision raises critical questions about the motivations behind Spičanović’s selection and the security assessment process that preceded it.

In an interview on Aplus Television, Vuksic outlined the circumstances surrounding Spičanović’s rapid rise to prominence within the agency. He noted that Spičanović was appointed immediately following the arrival of former ANB director Sava Kentera. Vuksic emphasized the importance of transparency in the appointment process, stating, “This is the second position in the ANB; the Counterintelligence Agency operates under the agency’s umbrella. It is not only responsible for the protection of state institutions but also for its personnel. Spičanović has never been an officer of the ANB; he came from another institution or may not have worked at all.”

Vuksic raised concerns over who might have influenced Kentera’s decision to appoint Spičanović, suggesting that Kentera should clarify who recommended Spičanović for the position. “It is an indisputable fact that Kentera appointed Spičanović. The question is who proposed and suggested that Spičanović assume this role,” Vuksic remarked.

Vuksic has called for an urgent session of the Committee for Security and Defense to investigate how Spičanović was appointed, who conducted his security evaluation, and who authorized his access to sensitive information. “All documentation regarding this process should be provided to the committee. This cannot happen without proper oversight,” he concluded.

This controversy follows Spičanović’s detention earlier today by officers from the Special Police Department (SPO). Reports have emerged detailing multiple controversies surrounding his previous professional conduct. Media sources indicate that Spičanović was a schoolmate of Kentera, who included him among his closest associates in management.

Spičanović previously served as head of internal control at the Ministry of Interior, a position for which he was reportedly appointed unlawfully. Today’s police operation has led to the arrest of several former high-ranking police officials, as well as businessman Aleksandar Mijajlović and senior state prosecutor Andrijana Nastić.

The unfolding events surrounding Spičanović’s appointment and subsequent detention highlight ongoing concerns about accountability and the integrity of security institutions in the region. As investigations progress, the implications for both the ANB and the broader political landscape remain to be seen.