Massive protest in Novi Sad: 14 dead after roof collapse, anger from citizens!

Massive protest in Novi Sad: 14 dead after roof collapse, anger from citizens!

In an explosive riot in Novi Sad, Serbia, thousands of angry demonstrators have poured into the streets to protest the tragic collapse of a train station roof that killed 14 people, including a six-year-old girl. People are clamoring for arrests and accountability for those responsible as anger grows over the country's abuses.

Police, in full riot gear, responded to the protests Tuesday night with tear gas and pepper spray as tensions escalated around the city government building. Some masked protesters threw rocks and other objects, despite organizers' calls for calm. The situation escalated further as eggs, bottles and bricks were thrown at the offices of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS). President Aleksandar Vucic warned of “horrible, violent protests” and stressed that the police were showing “restraint”.

Political turmoil and resignations

The incident has already led to a resignation: Transport Minister Goran Vesic resigned from his post, while the public prosecutor's office questioned 48 people, including Vesic himself. The investigation is ongoing and evidence has been secured. Despite authorities' claims that the collapsed roof was not part of the renovation work, public anger remains unabated. The protesters accuse the government of being involved in corruption, nepotism and links to organized crime.

The demonstrations are not only an expression of pain over the loss of life, but also a sign of resistance against a government that many perceive as corrupt. Vucic, who surprisingly mingled with his supporters, assured that all “perpetrators of criminal acts” would be punished. But the question remains: Will this calm citizens' anger or just add fuel to the fire?