Police Officer Injured in Crossbow Attack at Israeli Embassy in Belgrade

A police officer guarding the Israeli embassy in Belgrade was injured by an attacker armed with a crossbow. The attacker was shot dead by the officer, who was hit in the neck but managed to fire back. Serbian officials have called this a ‘terrorist attack against Serbia.’

Details of the Incident

Interior Minister Ivica Dacic explained that the attacker approached the officer several times, asking for the location of a museum. He then pulled out a crossbow from his bag and shot the officer. The officer, despite being injured, fired several shots at the attacker, who later died from his injuries. The identity of the attacker is still being determined.

Investigation and Arrests

Authorities are investigating possible connections to foreign terrorist groups. Several people believed to be linked to the incident have been arrested. Minister Dacic mentioned that these individuals might already be known to security services.

Officer’s Condition

The injured officer underwent surgery to remove the arrow from his neck and is now in stable condition. He was conscious when transported to Belgrade’s main hospital.

Reactions and Statements

Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vucic visited the wounded officer and promised a strong response to the attack. Prime Minister Milos Vucevic condemned the act, calling it a ‘heinous terrorist act’ and a ‘crime of an individual.’

Security Measures

The Israeli embassy in Belgrade remains closed, and no employees were injured. The embassy is located near the U.S. embassy in an upscale district and is guarded by an elite police unit.