Eleven people have been arrested in Serbia in connection with the collapse of a railway station roof in Novi Sad that resulted in the deaths of 15 individuals. The incident occurred on November 1st when the recently renovated concrete awning collapsed, killing 14 people and injuring three. One of the injured individuals later passed away. This tragedy has sparked protests in the country, with opposition leaders and the public blaming government corruption and nepotism for the shoddy construction that led to the collapse.
President Aleksandar Vucic has called for those responsible to be held accountable, leading to the resignation of several government officials, including the transport, construction, and infrastructure minister, the trade minister, and the head of Serbian Railways. The Novi Sad High Prosecutor’s Office has stated that the 11 individuals were arrested on suspicion of criminal acts against public safety, with one of the initials matching that of Goran Vesic, the former minister. Vesic has denied being among those arrested but did confirm meeting with law enforcement voluntarily.
Opposition deputies have been protesting in front of a courthouse in Novi Sad, demanding justice for those responsible for the disaster and the immediate release of activists who were arrested during anti-government protests related to the incident. This news comes amidst ongoing tension in Serbia surrounding the railway station collapse and the calls for accountability and transparency in the aftermath of the tragedy.
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