Skopje police investigation launched following allegations of brutality

police violence Skopje North Macedonia internal investigation human rights

North Macedonia's Ministry of Internal Affairs has launched an investigation into allegations of police brutality involving two young men, aged 21 and 23, in Skopje. The incident, which reportedly occurred on October 7, has sparked significant political tension and public outcry.

Conflicting accounts of the event have emerged. According to reports cited by the BDI party, an internal police report suggests the young men seized a policeman's pistol. Conversely, the victims and the DUI party allege that police officers shot at their vehicle, punctured the tires, and broke a window, causing the weapon to end up inside the car. The victims also claim they were physically assaulted while their hands were tied.

The VLEN political party has expressed deep concern, stating that any violation of law or abuse of authority must be met with legal accountability. Meanwhile, the Ministry has tasked its Internal Control, Criminal Investigation, and Professional Standards departments with determining the full facts and establishing responsibility for any misconduct.

Entities

Aleanca për Shqiptarët · BDI · Bulgaria · DUI · Hristijan Mickoski · Lëvizja Populli · Ministry of Internal Affairs of North Macedonia · North Macedonia · North Macedonia Police · Skender Rexhepi · Skopje · VLEN

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[DISPUTED] The two young men allege the police shot at their vehicle, punctured tires, and broke a window, causing the weapon to end up in their car. faxweb.al · opserver.mk
[○ 1 SOURCE] The two individuals involved are 21 and 23 years old. faxweb.al
[● 2 SOURCES] The Ministry of Internal Affairs has ordered an investigation into allegations of police violence against two young men in Skopje. faxweb.al · opserver.mk
[● 3 SOURCES] The VLEN party has called for accountability if the investigation finds police officials exceeded their competencies. almakos.com
[DISPUTED] BDI claims an internal police report suggests the two young men seized a policeman's pistol. faxweb.al