Serbian Minister Goran Vesic and ten others were detained for questioning over the fatal roof collapse at Novi Sad railway station on November 1, which killed 15 people. Vesic claimed he voluntarily responded to the police summons to assist with the investigation.
The incident led to protests in Novi Sad, demanding accountability. Some detainees face charges related to public safety and improper construction. Vesic resigned on November 4, denying responsibility for the disaster and expressing confidence the investigation would clear him.
Tanaskovic, Serbian Railways director, and Trade Minister Tomislav Momirovic also resigned. The station renovation, part of a Chinese-led project, began in 2021 and was completed in 2024, declared “to European standards.”
Documents related to the renovation have been classified, fueling controversy. Opposition members blocked the court building for two days, demanding a thorough investigation and the release of arrested protestors.
Riot police were deployed to disperse the protests, using force against opposition politicians and councillors. The investigation into the disaster is ongoing.