24 Jun 2020 | 10:51 PM UTC
Montenegro: Police fire tear gas to disperse opposition protesters in Budva June 24
Montenegrin police fired tear gas at opposition protesters in an attempt to disperse crowds in Budva on June 24; avoid all demonstrations
Event
Montenegrin police forces on Wednesday, June 24, fired tear gas at protesters outside the City Hall in Budva in an attempt to disperse a demonstration by the pro-Serb opposition. The demonstration was organized to show support for the local mayor who has refused to relinquish control over the local assembly. An associated demonstration was also held outside of the Interior Ministry's headquarters in the capital Podgorica.
Prime Minister Dusko Markovic stated that police forces were enforcing the law.
Further protests and an increased security presence in Montenegro are to be expected in the near term. Localized disruption to transportation is likely.
Context
The political dispute in Budva began on June 17 after the mayor, loyal to the pro-Serb opposition, refused to hand over power to the ruling coalition despite losing his majority in the local assembly.
Advice
Individuals in Montenegro are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
