This action aims to restore a sense of security that has been deeply shaken by the tragic events. The shootings, which occurred in Belgrade and a rural area south of the capital, have shocked the nation and prompted calls for fostering tolerance, eliminating widespread hate speech, and addressing the prevalent gun culture stemming from the conflicts of the 1990s.
Opposition parties have called on citizens to participate in a march against violence in central Belgrade, scheduled for later on Monday. They are demanding the resignations of government ministers and changes in mainstream media practices, which often provide a platform for convicted war criminals and individuals involved in criminal activities.
Education Minister Branko Ruzic tendered his resignation on Wednesday, and authorities have initiated measures to crack down on the possession of firearms. However, the opposition believes these actions to be insufficient and too late in coming.
The school shooting on Wednesday marked a grim milestone as the first of its kind in recent Serbian history. A 13-year-old boy used his father's guns to open fire at his school in the heart of Belgrade, tragically killing seven girls, one boy, and a school guard.
The following day, a 20-year-old individual carried out a shooting rampage in two villages in central Serbia, using an automatic weapon to randomly kill eight people and injure 14. According to state media reports, the perpetrator has confessed to the killings, stating that his intention was to spread fear among the local residents.
In addition to deploying police forces, authorities have implemented patrols at other schools in Serbia. Teams of experts, supported by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), have been dispatched to provide guidance and assistance to children, parents, and teachers during this challenging time. (ILKHA)