The Skopje Criminal Court has decided to impose precautionary measures against four of the eight individuals suspected of jeopardizing air traffic safety. This decision comes despite the prosecution’s request for their detention, as the evidence presented was deemed insufficient for their detainment, stated the court in a recent press release.

Responding to public concerns and aiming to address “unsubstantiated speculations” while maintaining investigation confidentiality, the court emphasized its commitment to adjudicating solely based on evidence from the Public Prosecutor’s Office and the Interior Ministry, preserving judicial autonomy.

Although acknowledging the commission of a felony and the necessity for suspects’ availability to the prosecution, the Criminal Court highlighted an ongoing investigation against eight individuals, with detention sought only for four of them.

Citing Article 303 Paragraph 2 of the Criminal Code, which charges the suspects with endangering air traffic safety, the court emphasized a lack of evidence supporting the severe implications required by this legal provision.

The release clarified that no substantial medical records were submitted documenting serious injuries, and the injured party hadn’t provided statements to law enforcement or filed any complaints. Moreover, the evidence failed to establish how the suspects’ actions might have led to serious harm, damage to property, or disrupted airport operations.

Additionally, the Civil Aviation Agency director reported no violations or threats to air traffic safety, with no incident reports submitted regarding air traffic safety concerns.

While ordering precautionary measures on Jan. 5 against the questioned individuals – including the seizure of passports, residence constraints, and communication prohibition with the injured party or among themselves – the court emphasized the ongoing investigation’s necessity. Any appeals to this decision by the Public Prosecutor’s Office will be reviewed by the Criminal Council.

The incident on Jan. 4 involved an attack on M-NAV staff, with suspicions of threats to Skopje International Airport security. The ongoing search continues for the remaining four individuals involved.

Meanwhile, the government announced intentions to discuss the dismissal of all M-NAV managers and management board members at its forthcoming Jan. 9 session.