Serbia's Interior Minister rejects claims regarding counterterrorism chief’s retirement

In an official statement, Dacic stressed that Vulevic met the conditions for retirement on March 23, 2024, before Dacic even assumed his ministerial post. At that time, Vulevic was approved to continue his service. “Colonel Vulevic informed us that he has decided to retire, and this is his personal request, without any external influence,” Dacic said.

The minister dismissed claims of political involvement as “malicious lies.” He added, “It is absolutely absurd to involve anyone outside the Interior Ministry in employment matters, especially President Vucic. Decisions on retirements are made by me as minister every few months for all who meet the requirements. Personnel appointments in the police are decided by the police director with my consent, not by the president or anyone else.”

Dacic called on the public to stop spreading falsehoods for “cheap political points.”

Earlier today, N1 reported that Colonel Vulevic had been relieved of duty and would formally retire on Monday. Sources close to N1 suggested his retirement followed a request from President Vucic, a claim Dacic firmly rejected.