UPDATE: Refik and Ernest Kardović, two brothers from Rožaje, vehemently denied any wrongdoing during a crucial court hearing today in the Higher Court of Podgorica. The brothers are facing serious charges related to their alleged involvement in a cigarette smuggling operation led by fugitive Vladimir Mijajlović.
The Special State Prosecutor’s Office (SDT) claims the Kardović brothers, along with eight others, participated in a criminal organization that smuggled cigarettes through the Port of Bar, resulting in an estimated loss of €3.52 million to Montenegro’s budget. “We do not know why we are on the defendant’s bench,” Refik Kardović stated, emphasizing their longstanding commitment to lawful business practices.
Today’s hearing marked a pivotal moment as the brothers asserted that all their assets were acquired through legal means, claiming they began working at the age of 15. “After the death of family members, we inherited substantial property,” Refik added, insisting that their private business was built on legitimate revenue.
Ernest Kardović further stressed the lack of evidence against them, stating, “There is not a single message or proof linking us to any criminal activity.” He expressed frustration over the seizure of their entire property, which they believe was unjustly taken.
The indictment lists a total of ten individuals, including Nikola Dedaj, Aldin Mlatišuma, and Miloš Mišurović, among others, who are accused of creating a criminal organization, prolonged smuggling, and money laundering. The SDT alleges that the group continuously sold and concealed untaxed cigarettes for illegal profit.
Defense attorneys have fiercely criticized the indictment, citing significant flaws, particularly regarding the reliance on SKY communications, which form the backbone of the prosecution’s case. Attorney Lazar Aković, representing several defendants, argued that the indictment lacks substantial personal and material evidence, relying only on fragments of SKY communications without supporting documentation.
“The court seems to confirm indictments almost mechanically, which jeopardizes lives,” Aković asserted, calling for the case to be dismissed due to insufficient evidence. He questioned the validity of the SKY communications, linking them to previous cases where similar evidence was deemed unreliable.
Attorney Nikola Ivanović, representing Nikola Dedaj, echoed these concerns, highlighting that defenses were hampered by the defendants’ detention, complicating their ability to prepare adequately.
As the court deliberates, the fate of the Kardović brothers and their co-defendants hangs in the balance. The legal proceedings are set to continue, with a decision expected soon from the court. This developing story raises critical questions about justice and the implications of alleged organized crime in Montenegro.
Stay tuned for updates as this high-stakes legal battle unfolds.
