PUBLIC STATEMENT ON THE INCURSION OF RUSSIAN HOOLIGANS INTO THE KROKODIL ASSOCIATION

22 Sep PUBLIC STATEMENT ON THE INCURSION OF RUSSIAN HOOLIGANS INTO THE KROKODIL ASSOCIATION

On Friday, September 20, at approximately 4 p.m., a group of Russian-speaking foreign nationals unlawfully entered the offices of the KROKODIL Association. While employees were performing their duties, these individuals covertly accessed the premises and removed the Ukrainian flag from its display on the terrace. Meanwhile, one member of the group engaged with the staff and physically obstructed their view of the office space, creating a tense atmosphere.

This incident represents the latest in a troubling pattern of over thirty attacks since the beginning of the invasion of Ukraine. What distinguishes this event from previous assaults is that the perpetrators were Russian nationals who intruded into the KROKODIL workspace while employees were present. The intent behind this intrusion appears to be the instillation of fear and insecurity among our staff, undermining the safe and secure environment that workplaces should provide.

Furthermore, we wish to highlight that just a week prior, on Saturday, September 14, two Russian citizens removed the Palestinian flag from the terrace of the KROKODIL Center.

Upon reviewing security footage, it became evident that these individuals had visited KROKODIL previously. Their earlier inquiries about the Association’s activities suggest that this act was premeditated. Alarmingly, some of the assailants wore sweatshirts emblazoned with national symbols of Serbia.

Immediately following the incident, employees contacted the local police; however, the patrol from the Stari Grad police station failed to file a report.

This incursion sends a stark message: violent groups feel empowered to threaten the operations of KROKODIL, an organization dedicated to serving the public interest in Serbia for the past sixteen years. This raises serious questions about who is responsible for protecting our community from such hostile entities that jeopardize the safety of Serbian citizens.

This event is a direct consequence of the failure to hold accountable those responsible for the escalating attacks on civil society organizations and activists. It also reflects a broader, organized campaign of hate—a call for a witch hunt that poses a significant threat to all citizens of the Republic of Serbia who seek to exercise their right to free speech. We must support those who understand that a healthy democracy demands critical voices and open dialogue.

As we move forward, we remain steadfast in our commitment to uphold the principles of democracy and defend the rights of all citizens to express their views freely and without fear.