Alija Balijagić (64), the suspect in a double murder case, has been extradited to Montenegro and transferred to the prison in Bijelo Polje. He is scheduled to appear before the investigative judge of the High Court in Bijelo Polje tomorrow at 10 a.m., following a previous ruling ordering his detention.
The Montenegrin police have released a video of Balijagić’s extradition. In response to his transfer, security measures were heightened, with increased police presence at all entry points to Bijelo Polje, as well as outside the local prosecutor’s office.
Timeline of the Case:
- October 25, 2024 – Balijagić allegedly shot and killed siblings Jovan (60) and Milenka Madžgalj (69) in their home in the Sokoloac settlement of Bijelo Polje, using a hunting rifle.
- November 21, 2024 – Serbian authorities arrested Balijagić in Pribojska Goleška (Priboj Municipality) around 3:00 a.m.
- November 22, 2024 – Montenegro’s Ministry of Justice formally requested extradition from Serbia.
- March 2025 – Following extradition proceedings, Serbia approved Balijagić’s transfer to Montenegrin authorities.
The Interpol Office in Montenegro, assisted by special police tactical units, took custody of Balijagić from Serbian officials at the Dobrakovo border crossing. He was escorted to Bijelo Polje Prison under strict security measures, with police blocking his transport route for safety reasons.
Balijagić is facing charges of aggravated murder and illegal possession of firearms and explosives. His trial will now proceed under Montenegro’s judicial system.
This case highlights how regional police cooperation and Interpol coordination can ensure that serious criminals don’t escape justice by fleeing across borders.
However, it also raises questions—how was Balijagić able to leave Montenegro in the first place? If he was a suspect in such a brutal crime, why wasn’t he immediately detained? While his extradition is a success for law enforcement, the real challenge now is ensuring a fair and thorough trial that delivers justice for the victims.
Written by our correspondent A.A.
