Nova TV crew attacked on Vir; Croatian Journalists' Association demands sanctions

A news crew from Nova TV faced a violent assault on the island of Vir while documenting a tourist inspection that led to the sealing of illegal apartments. The incident, which occurred Tuesday morning, saw a group of foreign nationals, reportedly owners of the sealed properties, turn on journalists Ivan Krznarić and David Šimić.

The attackers allegedly threw stones at the crew and then physically assaulted them. The cameraman sustained injuries to his head and abdomen during the attack. Police and emergency services responded promptly, and individuals suspected of involvement were arrested.

The Croatian Journalists' Association (HND) strongly condemned the assault, offering full support to the Nova TV team and their newsroom. The HND called for the strictest possible sanctions against those responsible, highlighting that such attacks are a severe blow to media freedom and the public's right to information. The association noted a similar physical assault on a Nova TV crew earlier in May, underscoring a concerning pattern.

Authorities are investigating the incident, and the arrested individuals are cooperating with the police. The HND's statement emphasized that these attacks must not go unpunished, aligning with an agreement on journalist safety signed by the HND, the Croatian Journalists' Union, and the police.