Police Arrest Organized Crime Member in Niksic, Seize Audi Q7

Police in Niksic, Montenegro, apprehended a member of an organized crime group on March 15, 2024. The suspect, identified as I.R., aged 35, is accused of engaging in the unauthorized production, possession, and trafficking of narcotics in collaboration with other known criminals. This operation was conducted by the Criminal Combat Sector in coordination with the Budva and Niksic security departments, supported by the Special Police Unit.

According to the police, I.R. is suspected of committing these offenses alongside V.V., aged 30, from Cetinje, who is wanted internationally for murder. He is also linked to N.B., a 24-year-old member of the same organization, who was arrested on January 3, 2024, for multiple criminal activities, including murder and illegal possession of weapons and explosives.

During a search of a residence where N.B. was hiding in Spuz, police recovered nearly half a kilogram of cocaine, implicating I.R., V.V., and N.B. in drug-related crimes. Following these developments, the Ministry of Interior confirmed that criminal charges have been filed against I.R. and V.V. for their involvement in these offenses.

Details of the Arrest

In the recent operation, the police also detained two additional individuals from the organized crime group, identified as I.D. and V.L., who were present during the arrest of I.R.. V.L. received a minor penalty for a violation, while authorities revealed that I.D. was found to be in breach of a restriction order preventing him from leaving the Budva municipality. This information will be communicated to the relevant court.

As part of the investigation, police seized an Audi Q7 belonging to I.R. to facilitate further legal procedures. This action is part of a broader effort by the police to dismantle organized crime groups, focusing on high-risk individuals and locating internationally wanted criminals.

The police department emphasized its commitment to combating organized crime, stating, “We continue to act decisively to disrupt and neutralize the activities of organized crime groups, with a primary focus on high-risk members and the location and arrest of internationally sought individuals.”

The ongoing enforcement actions reflect a significant push by law enforcement to address crime in Montenegro, aiming to enhance public safety and reduce drug trafficking activities.