Two Suspects Arrested for Murder in Central Belgrade

The Higher Public Prosecutor’s Office in Belgrade has initiated an investigation into two suspects, Đorđe Z. (21) and Marko P. (18), in connection with a murder that occurred on March 14, 2024, in Hercegovačka Street. According to the prosecutor’s office, the pair is suspected of having fatally attacked a male individual, believed to be a citizen of Montenegro identified as F.I., born in 1991.

The prosecutor’s office released a statement detailing that Đorđe Z. confessed during questioning to committing the crime, although he did not provide further details or describe the circumstances of the act. In contrast, Marko P. chose to exercise his legal right to remain silent.

Following the interrogation, the prosecutor’s office requested that a judge from the Higher Court in Belgrade place both suspects in pre-trial detention. This request was based on specific circumstances indicating a risk of them influencing witnesses and potentially committing further offenses in the near future. The statement emphasized that the charges carry a prison sentence of over ten years, and the method and severity of the crime have caused public unrest, potentially jeopardizing the fair conduct of legal proceedings.

The charges against Đorđe Z. include serious murder and the illegal production, possession, carrying, and trafficking of weapons and explosive materials. Marko P. is charged with aiding and abetting serious murder.

According to the prosecutor’s office, there is substantial evidence suggesting that Đorđe Z. devised and planned the crime, intending to kill the victim when he was least expecting it. It is alleged that he approached the victim from behind while unlawfully carrying a firearm and ammunition without the necessary permits, with Marko P. assisting in the execution of the crime.

The incident unfolded around 23:00 when Đorđe Z. arrived at Hercegovačka Street by taxi. He met with the unidentified male, believed to be F.I., and handed over two suitcases that had been delivered to his apartment earlier that evening. As the man took possession of the suitcases and attempted to leave, Đorđe Z. reportedly fired multiple shots at him, resulting in the victim’s immediate death from the injuries sustained.

Subsequently, Đorđe Z. fled the scene towards higher-numbered addresses on Hercegovačka Street, where he was apprehended by police at a pedestrian crossing near the entrance of an underground garage. During the arrest, authorities discovered two handguns—one a Glock and the other an EZ9 9mm PARA—both lacking visible serial numbers and each loaded with a round in the chamber.

Authorities continue to investigate the case, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges and the ongoing risk posed by the suspects.