Novi Sad prosecutors seek detention for suspects in boy's assault

Prosecutors in Novi Sad have formally requested pre-trial detention for suspects involved in a brutal attack on minors. The incident, which occurred on July 15 in a park near the "7. April" Medical School, saw a group of masked assailants armed with sticks assault several young individuals.

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The measure relates to the event of July 15 in Novi Sad in a park near the "7. April" Medical School, when a group of masked individuals attacked a group of younger individuals who were in the park, including minors N.T. and N.K. from Novi Sad, with whom, during such reckless violent behavior, they attempted to deprive of life, inflicting multiple blows with sticks to the head and body.

Two minors, N.T. and N.K. from Novi Sad, were among the victims. The attack was particularly violent towards N.T., who sustained life-threatening injuries from multiple blows to his head and body. N.K. suffered minor injuries. The prosecution is pursuing charges against P.J., O.M., and an additional suspect who remains at large and is the subject of an intensive manhunt.

Investigators have secured the scene, collected evidence, and reviewed surveillance footage from the area. The suspects P.J. and O.M. were detained for 48 hours before being questioned by the Higher Public Prosecutor's Office in Novi Sad on July 18. Following their questioning, the prosecution submitted a request for their pre-trial detention to a judge.

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The request for pre-trial detention for both suspects was submitted due to particular circumstances indicating that the suspects will obstruct the proceedings by influencing witnesses, particular circumstances indicating they will repeat the criminal offense in a short period, as well as due to the manner of execution and the consequences of the criminal offense which have led to public alarm.

The request for detention is based on concerns that the suspects might interfere with the investigation by influencing witnesses or that they might re-offend due to the nature of the crime. The severity of the attack and its consequences have caused significant public alarm. The prosecution also requested pre-trial detention and an international arrest warrant for the suspect who is currently evading capture. Authorities have pledged to conduct a swift investigation to ensure a just legal decision and will inform the public accordingly.

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The Higher Public Prosecutor's Office in Novi Sad will, in accordance with the law, urgently conduct an investigation, during which all evidentiary actions deemed necessary will be taken, in order to make a proper and lawful public prosecutor's decision, about which the public will be informed in a timely manner.