Reporter Attacked During Novi Sad Protest: Officer Suspended

Novi Sad Protest Turns Violent: Reporter Attacked, Officer Suspended Novi Sad, Serbia – A journalist covering a protest outside a court in Novi Sad on June 3, 2025, was unexpectedly attacked and injured when she was hit in the face with a bag of paint. The incident, captured on video, shows the reporter's immediate shock and the intervention of a police officer. The officer, later identified as Jovan, was subsequently suspended from his duties. The reporter stated, "I thought I'd been hit with a stone at first, then the pain was intense." The video sparked outrage and raised questions about the safety of journalists covering protests and the use of force by law enforcement. The protest itself was related to the release of SNS activists who had previously been arrested. The reporter's account highlights the chaotic atmosphere of the event and the swift response from some bystanders who came to her aid. Jovan's suspension, while seemingly a positive step, also underscores the complex political climate in Serbia. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by journalists working in challenging environments and the ongoing need for accountability and protection.