Montenegro: CFWIJ is alarmed by the attack against N1 TV journalist Aleksandra Tolj Ruzic

September 10, 2021- Aleksandra Tolj Ruzic, a correspondent for N1 TV, was harassed and attacked while covering a demonstration in Cetinje. On September 5, Aleksandra was covering a protest against the inauguration of the head of a Serbian church with her TV crew. She was intimidated and then attacked by violent protesters before leaving the scene. Aleksandra took refuge in a local house until the police arrived and rescued her and the crew. The CFWIJ is appalled by the attack and demands state authorities apprehend the assailants. We commend Aleksandra for her courage and commitment to her work.

The first attack against Aleksandra was initiated while she was live-streaming the tense atmosphere in central Cetinje before the inauguration. A group of young and angry protestors demanded Aleksandra and her crew to stop filming. When she did not comply, they threw a blunt object at the journalist. 

Aleksandra faced another attack by the violent assailants during her live segment. The irate crowd surrounded her and demanded she delete the footage, though there was no recording as she was broadcasting live. One of the attackers threw water at the crew, which they had stored in case of a tear gas attack. Amidst the chaos, Aleksandra and her team eventually stopped filming.

Fortunately, Aleksandra was able to find help and sought refuge at a house in Cetinje. She stayed there with her TV crew until the police arrived and escorted them out of the area. While speaking to CPJ, Aleksandra shared that the Montenegro prosecutor initiated an investigation into this unfortunate attack. 

The Safejournalists Network condemned the violent attack against Aleksandra, demanding the police arrest the perpetrators. The network shared a statement of solidarity, “We will inform the relevant national and international stakeholders about this case. Each attack on journalists is an attack on public interest, democracy and rights of all citizens.” 

The Coalition For Women In Journalism condemns the attack on Aleksandra Tolj Ruzic and her team. We commend the journalist for standing her ground in the face of threats. The CFWIJ demands law enforcement identify the assailants and hold them accountable. We urge the authorities to prioritize press safety at such events.