Montenegro’s National Security Council convened on Friday to consider stricter gun controls, including the possibility of a total ban on gun ownership, following a tragic New Year’s Day mass shooting that claimed 12 lives. The attacker, 45-year-old Aleksandar Martinovic, reportedly began his rampage after a bar altercation, using a 9mm firearm to fire 37 rounds before taking his own life when police cornered him.
Despite being ranked sixth globally for illegal firearms per capita, Montenegro, a Balkan nation of approximately 620,000 people, has experienced relatively few mass shootings. However, this incident, coupled with a mass shooting in August 2022 that left 10 dead, has reignited debates over firearm regulations.
Prime Minister Milojko Spajić initially proposed a “complete ban on gun ownership” in a post on X (formerly Twitter). However, the council opted instead for severe penalties for those found in possession of illegal weapons. Spajić emphasized a zero-tolerance policy, stating, “There will be no mercy for these people. They will end up in prison.”
The measures reflect growing concerns over public safety in a country where illegal firearms remain a pervasive issue, despite a historically low incidence of mass shootings.
Last month, Canada banned 324 additional assault-style firearms, continuing its push for stricter gun control. This decision builds on a 2020 ban of 1,500 firearm models, which was expanded to over 2,000 last month as more weapons were identified.
Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc announced the new restrictions, which take effect immediately, stating, “Firearms designed for the battlefield plainly do not belong in our communities.”
The government is also exploring ways to support Ukraine by donating seized firearms. Discussions are underway with Ukrainian officials to determine how these weapons could aid the country’s defense against Russia’s invasion. Defense Minister Bill Blair underscored the importance of these efforts, stating, “Every bit of assistance we can offer to the Ukrainians is one step toward their victory.”
