Montenegro is grieving after yet another mass shooting has highlighted the pressing issue of gun control within the nation. On Wednesday, Aco Martinović opened fire across several locations in the western town of Cetinje, killing 12 people. Tragically, this incident marks the second mass shooting to occur within three years, prompting immediate outcry for urgent changes to gun laws.
The shooting began after Martinović, 45, reportedly engaged in a brawl at a bar. Following the altercation, he returned with his illegal 9mm handgun to the bar where he opened fire, targeting his victims who included family members and known acquaintances. Among the casualties were seven men, three women—including his sister—and two young children, aged just ten and thirteen. Four additional people sustained serious injuries and are currently hospitalized.
Describing the horrific event, Police Commissioner Lazar Šćepanović stated, "A terrible tragedy has struck all of us in Cetinje, in the village of Bajice." With countless citizens mourning, candlelight vigils have spread through the country. Hundreds of individuals lit candles to honor the victims, urging the government to take responsibility and demanding answers about the tragedy.
On Friday, protests erupted as around 200 people gathered outside the government headquarters in Podgorica, shouting for accountability and the resignations of senior security officials. Demonstrators chanted "murderers," expressing their frustration with the government's failure to prevent such incidents. Retiree Mira Škorić, participating in the protest, reflected the national grief by stating, "I can’t believe we failed so much as a society. We failed as people too." This sentiment resonates deeply with many, leading to calls for not just mourning but reform as well.
Since the shooting, there have been discussions within the Montenegrin government about enforcing stricter gun control measures. An emergency session of the National Security Council convened shortly after the shooting to discuss potential new legislation targeting the country's deep-seated gun culture. According to state television RTCG, Montenegro ranks sixth globally for illegal weapons per capita. With approximately 620,000 citizens, this translates to concerns about the accessibility of firearms within the society.
The need for reform is highlighted by the stark reality of violent incidents plaguing the nation; the most significant previous shooting occurred back in August 2022, when 10 individuals lost their lives at the hands of another gunman. Human Rights organizations have echoed calls for analysis of existing security measures, stating, "What has changed in the security system in Cetinje since 2022?" The tragic recurrence of such violence invokes grim reflections on the effectiveness of the country's response to threats of gun violence.
Victims like Vesna Pejović, who lost her daughter and grandchildren during the 2022 massacre, have amplified their voices demanding stronger protection from authorities. "What kind of state and system is this where children are getting killed? Are we at war? Where were the police?" she questioned, expressing disbelief at the repeated tragedies affecting their community.
Local leaders have shown solidarity, with President Jakov Milatović sharing his condolences via social media: "Instead of holiday joy... we have been gripped by sadness over the loss of innocent lives." His statement reinforces the atmosphere of grief palpable across Montenegro, especially during this time meant for celebration.
Across the nation, the call for more extensive regulation of undocumented firearms presents itself as a potential step toward preventing another massacre. Proponents of gun control are urging for immediate action, with discussions of potential bans highlighting the urgency following this tragic loss of life.
Montenegro's persistent issues surrounding gun ownership and violence now face heightened scrutiny. Citizens demand accountability from their officials and seek reassurance of public safety moving forward. While the debate on adequate reforms proceeds, the nation mourns, hoping this tragedy serves as the catalyst for meaningful change.