Zoran Lazović refuses to seek release from detention in Podgorica court

Former senior police official Zoran Lazović has informed the High Court in Podgorica that he refuses to have his detention lifted, despite ongoing legal proceedings. Lazović, who has been in custody since April 2024, stated that he does not wish to be released until the court reaches a final verdict.

His defense attorney, Zoran Piperović, noted that this is a unique situation in his career, as the defendant has repeatedly rejected requests to seek release even after the prosecution had presented much of the evidence. The defense argued against claims made by the prosecution regarding the risk of flight, characterizing such assessments of personality as disparaging and inappropriate for legal professionals to make without medical expertise.

Lazović is accused of leading a criminal group that allegedly collaborated with and protected the Kavač clan. The legal proceedings also involve other high-profile figures, including retired Chief Special Prosecutor Milivoje Katnić and suspended Special Prosecutor Saša Čađenović, both of whom have been implicated in the same investigation.