A 64-year-old man, identified as V.M., was arrested during an operation named “Kayak,” aimed at combating illegal gravel extraction from the Moraca River. The operation was conducted by the Police Administration of Montenegro, which reported that V.M. was caught operating a machine that extracted material from state land.
During a routine inspection in the area, authorities discovered a working machine being used to excavate gravel. V.M. was loading this material into his truck, which bore Zeta registration plates. The police stated that the extraction was unauthorized and took place on public land.
According to a statement from the police, the Basic State Prosecutor’s Office in Podgorica ordered the temporary seizure of both the machine and the truck. Following an evaluation of the case, the prosecutor determined that V.M.’s actions constituted elements of a criminal offense related to unauthorized extraction and damage during the exploitation of river deposits. Consequently, V.M. was taken into custody.
He will face charges and be presented to the prosecutor for further legal proceedings within the legally stipulated timeframe.
The Police Administration, in collaboration with other relevant entities, is intensifying coordinated efforts to prevent criminal acts and offenses associated with illegal gravel extraction. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to combat environmental crime and safeguard Montenegro’s natural resources. The authorities emphasize the importance of preserving the environment and ensuring compliance with legal regulations to protect the country’s ecological integrity.
