EPPO continues investigation into Novi Sad railway project funds

The European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) confirmed that its investigation into the potential misuse of European Union funds regarding the reconstruction of the Novi Sad railway station and rail lines is ongoing. The EPPO stated it cannot provide further details at this stage to avoid jeopardizing current proceedings and their outcomes.

The investigation, which was initially launched following a private complaint, follows a tragic incident on November 1, 2024, when a canopy at the Novi Sad station collapsed, resulting in 16 deaths. This tragedy triggered widespread anti-corruption protests across Serbia, posing a significant challenge to the ruling Serbian Progressive Party and leading to student movements and the calling of early parliamentary elections.

In addition to the EPPO probe, several domestic legal proceedings are underway in Serbia. A primary case led by the Novi Sad Higher Public Prosecutor's Office has resulted in indictments against former Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Goran Vesić, former Director of Serbian Railway Infrastructure Jelena Tanasković, former official Anita Dimoski, and ten others. Another investigation by the Prosecutor's Office for Organized Crime is examining money flows and potential corruption related to the Belgrade–Subotica railway construction.