Former Police Assistant Alleges Eavesdropping Plot in Montenegro

Dejan Knežević, a former assistant director of the police administration in Montenegro, testified that Predrag Šuković, the head of the Special Police Department, attempted to install listening devices in a hotel where Marko Ljubiša Kan was staying. Knežević stated that this operation was supported logistically by Ivan Delić, a high-ranking member of a criminal organization. His remarks were delivered in court on October 10, 2023, during his defense.

Knežević revealed that he frequently visited Delić at home, leading him to oppose Šuković’s appointment to specific police sectors. He expressed his concerns openly to Šuković, stating, “What does he have to go to Delić’s house for?” This situation reportedly unfolded around ten years ago during the tenure of then-police chief Božidar Vuksanović.

In his testimony, Knežević explained that Šuković justified his visits to Delić by claiming they were conducted in collaboration with the Agency for National Security (ANB) and the Police Administration (UP) for a greater purpose. Despite these assertions, Knežević emphasized that he had never seen any official documentation supporting such claims.

Knežević’s statements were prompted by messages allegedly omitted from the indictment by the Special State Prosecutor’s Office (SDT). These messages were reportedly exchanged on the encrypted messaging platform Sky between suspended police officer Petar Lazović and Ivan Delić. In one message, Delić questioned Lazović about Knežević’s loyalty, suggesting there were tensions among them.

He reportedly wrote, “Brother, is this Knežević good with you? I see he mentioned that Baku and I are being scrutinized.” Lazović responded by praising Knežević as a professional, stating, “He is a brave and honest man.” Delić then expressed hope that Knežević would not cause trouble, indicating potential threats with the phrase, “I hope he doesn’t put something on us that we’ll regret later.”

Knežević noted that he had never taken any official action against Delić, which led him to feel animosity from him. He interpreted the phrase “scratching his head” as a threat and linked it to Šuković’s alleged disdain for him. This animosity, he suggested, was also reflected in police and prosecution actions against him.

The SDT has charged Knežević and former Budva Mayor Mila Božović with leaking confidential security information to individuals connected to organized crime. The indictment also includes several other individuals linked to various criminal activities, such as forming a criminal organization, money laundering, and illegal drug production and trafficking.

As the case unfolds, the implications of Knežević’s assertions raise questions about the integrity of law enforcement in Montenegro and its ties to organized crime. The trial continues to attract attention, reflecting broader concerns about corruption and accountability within the police force.