Clashes broke out in Užice between citizens and security personnel at a Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) rally, with police cordoning off the central square.

Tensions escalated in Užice as citizens and activists attempted to gather at Partizanski Trg ahead of a planned Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) rally. Police cordoned off the square to prevent access, leading to confrontations between citizens and SNS security personnel. The rally, which is expected to be attended by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, was officially registered by the local SNS municipal committee.

Clashes and Police Response

Reports indicate that SNS security personnel engaged in physical altercations with citizens, including individuals sitting in café terraces near the square. Witnesses and activists reported that police used tear gas and pushed back citizens who were standing peacefully near the cordons. Journalist Marija Vranić reported that one young man sustained serious injuries and one person was detained, while some mobile phones were broken during the incidents.

Official Statements and Allegations

Minister of Internal Affairs Ivica Dačić stated that approximately 150 people attempted to obstruct the legally registered SNS gathering. He reported that a cameraman from Radio Television of Serbia was injured after being struck by a stone. Conversely, the League of Social Democrats of Vojvodina (LSV) condemned the violence, alleging that police stood by while SNS security personnel attacked citizens. LSV has called for an independent investigation into the conduct of the police and the security personnel.