Skopje police suspend six officers for excessive use of force

The Ministry of Internal Affairs has announced the suspension of six police officers following an incident on October 7 involving the excessive use of force against two young men in Skopje. An internal investigation, supported by video footage and witness statements, confirmed several irregularities in the officers' conduct, including the use of physical force that resulted in bodily injuries.

While police reports initially suggested the two men, aged 21 and 23, had taken a service weapon, the victims claim the pistol ended up in their vehicle after police broke a window. The victims further alleged that officers fired shots in their direction. Competent prosecutors have ordered forensic medical examinations, and legal proceedings will continue once all evidence is documented.