Allegations Surround New Appointment in National Security Agency

The appointment of Drago Spičanović as head of the Counterintelligence Service within the National Security Agency (ANB) has sparked significant controversy. Dejan Vukšić, the security and defence advisor to the President of Montenegro, claimed that Spičanović was granted immediate access to classified information following his appointment. Vukšić made these assertions during an appearance on Aplus Television, highlighting concerns over the legitimacy of Spičanović’s role and security clearance.

According to Vukšić, Spičanović’s appointment came shortly after the arrival of the former ANB chief, Sava Kentera, who appointed him to this crucial position. Vukšić stated, “This is the second most important position in the ANB. The Counterintelligence Service serves to protect not only state bodies but also its personnel. Spičanović has never been an official of the ANB; he came from another institution.”

The implications of Spičanović’s rapid rise raise questions about the motivations behind his selection. Vukšić emphasized the need for transparency regarding who proposed Spičanović for this role, demanding that Kentera provide answers.

In light of these developments, Vukšić has called for an urgent meeting of the Security and Defence Committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding Spičanović’s appointment. He underscored the necessity of presenting all relevant documentation to the committee, asserting that this situation cannot be allowed to unfold without scrutiny. “Complete documentation must be submitted to the committee. This cannot just happen by itself,” Vukšić concluded.

Earlier today, Spičanović was detained by officials from the Special Police Department (SPO). His previous work has been marred with controversy, including allegations regarding his past role as head of internal control at the Ministry of the Interior, where he was reportedly appointed unlawfully.

Media reports have also indicated that Spičanović was a schoolmate of Sava Kentera, who included him among his closest associates in the management of the ANB. During today’s operation, several former high-ranking police officials, as well as businessman Aleksandar Mijajlović and senior state prosecutor Andrijana Naštić, were also arrested, suggesting a broader investigation into potential misconduct within the agency.

The unfolding situation highlights significant concerns regarding the processes governing security appointments in Montenegro, as well as the integrity of the country’s national security structure. The public and political observers will be closely monitoring the actions of the Security and Defence Committee in the coming days.