Serbian Protests Intensify After Fatal Novi Sad Train Station Roof Collapse
Silent demonstrations and arrests follow the deaths of 15 people, with allegations of corruption and negligence in renovation projects fueling public outrage.
- Hundreds of Serbian residents held silent protests in multiple cities, blocking traffic for 15 minutes to honor the victims of the Novi Sad train station roof collapse on November 1.
- The tragedy claimed 15 lives and injured several others, with many blaming corruption and poor oversight during the station's renovation by a consortium involving Chinese state companies.
- Prosecutors arrested 12 individuals, including former Construction Minister Goran Vesic, on charges related to irregular construction work and public endangerment, which carry penalties of up to 12 years in prison.
- Opposition politicians have called for the resignation of Serbia’s prime minister and other officials, as well as transparency in infrastructure project documentation, while continuing to organize protests.
- President Aleksandar Vucic rejected further resignations, labeling protesters as disruptive, while scuffles broke out between demonstrators and drivers during Friday's traffic blockades.