Dubrovnik hosts Štit Domovine 2026 police competition

The eighth edition of the ‘Štit Domovine Dubrovnik 2026’ international police competition has commenced in the Dubrovnik-Neretva County. Organized by the Croatian Ministry of the Interior, the event brings together police officers from Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, Hungary, and North Macedonia, alongside special police veterans from the Homeland War and members of the Croatian Army.

The competition features a demanding 30-kilometer course starting from Gajine and ending at Srđ. Participants are tested on physical endurance and tactical proficiency through six workstations involving weapon assembly/disassembly, obstacle navigation, pistol and rifle shooting, orientation, mountaineering, and room entry tactics.

As part of the event, a commemoration was held at the Boninovo city cemetery to honor Croatian defenders and civilians who died during the Homeland War. Wreaths and candles were laid by local and regional authorities, police officials, and international officers from several European countries to express respect for the fallen.