Skopje youth stabbing leaves 13-year-old in critical condition

A 13-year-old boy remains in critical condition following a stabbing in the Skopje neighborhood of Chair. Health Minister Sasho Klekovski reported that while the child is stable and heart movement is normal, the situation remains life-threatening.

The incident, which involved a physical altercation, led to the detention of five individuals. A 19-year-old suspect has been ordered into 30-day detention, while his minor brother, who is below the age of criminal responsibility, is being handled by social services.

In response to rising youth violence, the Mayor of Skopje, Orce Gjorgjievski, announced that the City of Skopje and the Ministry of Education and Science will soon introduce measures to prevent violence among students. This includes previous initiatives such as restricting mobile phone use during school hours.

Separately, Minister Klekovski addressed public health concerns, noting that measles vaccination rates among students are at 62%, which is insufficient for herd immunity. He also announced upcoming changes to medical protocols for cystic fibrosis treatments, specifically regarding the availability of the drug Trikafta for older children and adults.