Surge in hate crimes: Vandalism in Pancevo and Belgrade sparks outcry over institutional silence

Srdjan Sajn, President of the Roma Party, criticized the lack of official reaction regarding the desecration of the Jovanovic memorial. Speaking to N1, Sajn noted the sharp contrast between the high-profile unveiling of the plaque months ago, attended by a minister, and the current silence from authorities.

"The government is only interested in protecting those who serve its functions," Sajn stated. He argued that current policies have emboldened right-wing extremists and fascists through state collaboration. He further claimed that when individuals linked to the ruling structures are involved in incidents, the state merely finds a "scapegoat" while the true organizers remain unpunished.

Swift citizen action in Pancevo

In Pancevo, the community faced a disturbing message: "Pazar be the new Vukovar, Sjenica a second Srebrenica." Sinisa Jankovic from the citizens' association "Kareja" reported that local residents reacted emotionally and moved quickly to paint over the hate speech.

While one suspect in the Pancevo case has been detained, Jankovic remains skeptical about a full investigation. He suggested that if the trail leads to informal centers of power or influential figures, the inquiry may be stalled. "This is an individual act directed by a power center that finds unity and togetherness inconvenient," Jankovic concluded, reaffirming that the graffiti does not reflect the views of Pancevo's citizens.