Šaranović: Entire drone fleet deployed to monitor terrain and detect fires and suspicious individuals

Minister of the Interior Danilo Šaranović said that the Police Directorate and the Directorate for Protection and Rescue of the Ministry of the Interior are undertaking intensified preventive and operational activities across Montenegro, given the fires reported at several locations, as well as the risk of new fires breaking out due to unfavourable weather conditions and exceptionally high temperatures.

- We have deployed the entire available drone fleet for daytime and nighttime surveillance of the terrain, using thermal imaging to monitor open areas continuously from the air, ensure the timely detection of new fire outbreaks, track their spread, and identify individuals who may be linked to the starting of fires - Šaranović said in a public statement.

He said that law enforcement authorities would take decisive and stringent action against all individuals found to be engaging in unlawful and dangerous activities under such challenging weather conditions, and that they would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Šaranović appealed to citizens to pay particular attention to the ban on, and dangers associated with, lighting fires in open areas, and to act responsibly when disposing of cigarette butts and other flammable materials, which could endanger people and property and cause fires.

He urged citizens to report any suspicious behaviour or activity that could indicate an attempt to start a fire, both before and after a fire breaks out.

- The Police Directorate, in cooperation with the Directorate for Protection and Rescue, local services and other competent institutions, will continue monitoring the terrain and carrying out preventive and enforcement activities - Šaranović concluded.