Police officer testifies superior discouraged her from reporting suspect linked to former official

A Croatian police officer testified in court that her superior allegedly discouraged her from filing a criminal complaint following an incident in July 2024. The officer stated that Joško Periša, head of the Šibenik Traffic Police Station, advised her against immediate reporting, suggesting she would face repercussions for not acting sooner.

“

I was terrified. I have a young child at home and was pregnant with a second. I was afraid someone would harm my entire family.

During her testimony at the Karlovac Municipal Court, the officer recounted feeling terrified, especially as she had a young child and was pregnant at the time. She identified Periša as the individual who dissuaded her from filing a report, claiming he said there was "nothing to it" and that she would "get into trouble." The officer also stated that Periša mentioned the suspect was the daughter and wife of Nediljko Dujić, a former CEO of Croatian Forests, which she felt made her even more vulnerable.

The case centers on Anna Dujić, who is on trial for alleged coercion and threats against the officer. The incident reportedly occurred near Skradin, where Dujić is accused of driving towards the officer securing a blocked area. Further accusations include a later threat made against the same officer in a store. During the initial events, Dujić and her mother allegedly insulted police officers and firefighters.

“

He was dissuading me from filing a report, Chief Joško Periša, because he said there was nothing to it and that I would get into trouble because I didn't react immediately, pull him out of the car and put him in handcuffs.

Responding to the officer's testimony, the Police Officers' Union demanded the immediate dismissal of Police Director General Nikola Milina. The union asserted that the young officer did not receive adequate institutional protection. They specifically questioned why her initial official report did not lead to proceedings, prompting her to file a complaint two days later. The union also criticized Periša, deeming it unacceptable for him to continue in his leadership role.

“

It is unacceptable that he continues to hold a leadership position.