Angry protesters demand arrests in Serbia after deadly railway station collapse, leaving bloody handprints at government buildings.
In the aftermath of a tragic railway station collapse in Novi Sad, Serbia that claimed 14 lives, thousands of angry protesters have taken to the streets of the capital Belgrade.
The protesters are demanding the arrest of government officials they hold responsible for the disaster.
Carrying banners reading “corruption kills” and “we are all under the canopy,” the crowd gathered outside the Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure, chanting “arrest, arrest!” at the police officers stationed there.
The protesters accused the officers of “guarding murderers” and claimed their “hands are bloody.”
In a symbolic gesture, the demonstrators left red handprints at the entrances of government buildings, signifying the perceived culpability of authorities in the tragedy.
Opposition activists called on citizens across Serbia to do the same, spreading the message of public outrage.
The collapse of the concrete canopy at the Novi Sad railway station, which had been recently renovated, has sparked widespread anger and distrust in the government’s handling of the situation.
Critics attribute the disaster to rampant corruption, lack of transparency, and shoddy construction work, casting doubt on the official explanations provided by the authorities.
Despite the government’s promise of a thorough investigation, the protesters believe that true justice is unlikely to be served, given the populist ruling party’s firm control over the judicial system and law enforcement.
The combination of grief and rage has driven the citizens to take to the streets, demanding accountability and the resignation of senior officials, including the Prime Minister.
As Serbia grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event, the public’s outcry for justice and transparency serves as a powerful reminder of the deep-seated frustrations with the perceived failings of the government.
The continued demonstrations underscore the urgent need for meaningful reforms and a renewed commitment to public safety and accountability.