Ex-Minister Charged in Connection with Catastrophe at Serbian Train Station
In the heart of Serbia's second-largest city, Novi Sad, a tragic event shook the community last November. The roof of the newly renovated train station collapsed, resulting in the deaths of 16 individuals. This accident, which has since become a symbol of entrenched corruption, has led to a series of significant events.
The Serbian prosecutors have filed an updated indictment against 13 people, including a former minister, Goran Vesic. Among the accused are other public officials and private contractors involved in the renovation project.
The initial indictment was returned by the judges in Novi Sad in December, with a request for more information, which was provided in April following a supplementary investigation. The prosecutor's office complied with the judge's request, and the updated indictment was filed.
The roof collapse sparked almost daily protests, with protesters initially demanding a transparent investigation into the tragedy. As the investigation progressed, the protests soon escalated into demands for early elections.
The events have not been confined to Novi Sad alone. They have resonated throughout the country, with the roof collapse serving as a stark reminder of the need for accountability and transparency in public affairs.
A separate, independent investigation into the railway station roof collapse is being led by the prosecutor specializing in organized crime and corruption in Belgrade. The indictment proposes that the Higher Court in Novi Sad order custody for all the defendants, pending the outcome of the trial.
Following the decision, the accused were released or placed under house arrest, pending the trial. The fate of those indicted now rests in the hands of the justice system, as the people of Serbia await closure and a resolution to this tragic event.
