UPDATE: In a high-stakes courtroom drama unfolding right now in Podgorica, brothers Refik and Ernest Kardović have vehemently denied allegations of involvement in a large-scale cigarette smuggling operation. The brothers, appearing at a hearing today, claim they are innocent and have never faced legal conflicts.
The Special State Prosecutor’s Office (SDT) has charged the Kardović brothers as part of a ten-member criminal group allegedly led by the fugitive Vladimir Mijajlović. This organization is accused of smuggling cigarettes through the Port of Bar and committing serious offenses, including the creation of a criminal organization, extended smuggling, and money laundering.
During the hearing, Refik Kardović insisted that all their wealth was acquired legally, stating, “We have worked since we were 15 years old and inherited significant property after the death of family members.” The brothers argue that their assets have been unjustly seized, leaving them with nothing.
According to the SDT, the group is implicated in causing at least €3.52 million in damages to the Montenegrin budget through illegal sales and concealment of untaxed cigarettes. The prosecution claims that profits from these activities were later laundered into legal channels.
“There is no single message or evidence linking us to any criminal acts,” said Ernest Kardović, highlighting their complete lack of connection to the alleged crimes.
Legal representatives for the defendants have criticized the indictment, asserting it is fundamentally flawed and heavily relies on disputed communication data. Lawyer Lazar Aković, representing many of the accused, argued that the higher court often rubber-stamps indictments without proper scrutiny, raising serious concerns about fairness in the judicial process.
He stated, “I cannot and will not accept a formalistic approach. This decision impacts human lives.” Aković emphasized that the indictment lacks substantial evidence, relying only on fragments of intercepted communications without solid backing.
The case is drawing significant attention due to the high-profile nature of the defendants and its implications for organized crime in the region. Observers are closely watching as the court prepares to make a decision on the validity of the charges.
With the defense arguing that crucial evidence is missing—such as documentation of monetary transactions and transport details—the future of the case remains uncertain. The situation is developing, and the court is expected to announce its ruling within the legal timeframe.
Legal experts warn that if the prosecution’s evidence is deemed insufficient, it could jeopardize not only this case but potentially lead to changes in how similar cases are handled in Montenegro. As the trial progresses, anticipation builds over the implications for the accused and the larger battle against organized crime in the region.
Stay tuned for updates as the courtroom drama continues to unfold in this urgent and compelling case.
