Serbian Police Detain 79 Protesters Across Multiple Cities Amid Growing Dissent

Serbian police detained 79 protesters, including university students, amid ongoing demonstrations against President Aleksandar Vucic's populist government, as authorities dismantled street blockades in several cities including Belgrade, Novi Sad, Nis, and Novi Pazar. The protests, driven largely by student groups, were sparked by a deadly incident in November when a canopy roof collapsed at a renovated train station, killing 16 people and raising allegations of government negligence and corruption. Demonstrators have demanded early elections, which Vucic has refused, leading to intensified blockades and confrontations with police. Authorities denied claims of police brutality despite reports from protesters and eyewitnesses of batons being used and injuries sustained, including hospitalized students with broken bones. The unrest reflects deepening dissent against Vucic's increasingly authoritarian rule, with critics accusing him of stifling democratic freedoms and allowing corruption to flourish, while Serbia continues its formal bid to join the European Union. Police reported injuries on their side as well and stated their actions were lawful responses to efforts to restore public order.