Actual attacks on journalists, Gavrilo Andrić, Loznica, 10.03.2026.

Translations: Beograd 

Photojournalist Gavrilo Andrić was detained in Loznica, while performing his professional task and trying to record the bringing of activist and farmer Zlatko Kokanović for questioning in the proceedings against him.

Citizens gathered in front of the Sonovni court in Loznica to support Zlatko Kokanović ahead of the main trial in the proceedings against him due to the railway blockade in June 2024, and Gavrilo Andrić was on the spot to report on an event of public interest. Kokanović is in custody because of an incident at a farmer’s protest on March 1 this year.

In order to record the actions of the policeman, Andrić ran after the police vehicle in which Kokanović was, after which the police officers stopped him, took him into custody and took him to the police station. On that occasion, Andrić did not insult members of the police nor did he have any contact with them. In the videos published on social networks, several policemen can be seen surrounding the photojournalist, as well as the reaction of the gathered citizens who resent the actions of the police.

Even though Andrić immediately showed his identification, the policemen still decided to detain him. The photojournalist repeatedly asked to be informed about the reasons for the detention, however, the police officers did not do so immediately, but informed him about the reasons much later. At the police station, some members of the police were very aggressive and unpleasant, for no apparent reason, especially considering that Andrić was cooperative all the time. There was no basis for such behavior, neither for arresting him, nor for the way he was treated. At one point, they asked him to delete the recordings and photos from the camera, even though he did not have the camera with him at the time.

After giving his statement, Andrić was released, but a misdemeanor charge was filed against him for allegedly disturbing public order and peace.