Authorities in Montenegro have dismantled a network of foreign fighters, leading to the arrest of a 61-year-old man from Danilovgrad. This operation, named “Lugansk,” was conducted by the Police Administration in collaboration with the Higher State Prosecutor’s Office in Podgorica and the Ministry of Defense’s Intelligence and Security Directorate. The investigation revealed evidence of participation in foreign armed formations, which is in violation of both national and international laws.
The operation, which lasted several months, involved extensive surveillance and intelligence gathering. Law enforcement officials executed searches at 13 locations across three cities: Danilovgrad, Niksic, and Podgorica. During these operations, authorities confiscated a substantial cache of weapons and military equipment, including 24 firearms, over 1,000 rounds of ammunition, nine knives, sabers, and bayonets. Moreover, various uniforms, flags, and insignia associated with foreign military organizations were also seized.
The police identified the suspect, D.S., based on evidence collected over the course of the investigation. According to police reports, D.S. is suspected of participating in a foreign armed formation linked to the Russian Federation, specifically in the Lugansk region during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine from early 2023 to early 2025. Notably, D.S. was found to possess a staggering €1.5 million in funds, which were allegedly acquired through illegal means related to his involvement in foreign combat.
In addition to D.S., authorities apprehended another individual, 74-year-old D.B. from Danilovgrad, who was charged with the illegal possession of weapons and explosives. During the search, police discovered a hunting rifle and 18 rounds of ammunition in his possession. The investigation further implicated additional individuals, with a total of 12 suspects being targeted in the operation.
The police reported a variety of findings during the searches of residences linked to the suspects. For instance, among the items seized from J.B., a 64-year-old from Niksic, were a Zastava M57 pistol, military uniforms, and a Russian flag. Similarly, D.V., aged 31 from Podgorica, was found with multiple communication devices and SIM card holders during a search of his premises.
In a noteworthy search at the law office of Đ.V. in Podgorica, no illegal items were discovered. Authorities have since notified relevant state prosecutors regarding these developments, indicating that the investigation is ongoing and will expand to include further evidence collection and legal proceedings.
Montenegro’s police emphasize their commitment to countering modern security threats, particularly those involving organized crime and foreign influence. They are determined to identify and neutralize any illegal activities conducted by organized criminal groups operating both domestically and internationally.
The operation represents a significant step in addressing the challenges posed by foreign combatants and their networks, as the Montenegrin authorities continue to strengthen their law enforcement measures.
