Serbian opposition leader Zdravko Ponoš recently faced police questioning following his public assertions that authorities employed a sonic weapon against demonstrators during a significant anti-government protest in Belgrade on March 15, 2025. The inquiry is part of an investigation to ascertain if Ponoš’ claims on social media, regarding the deployment of a “sound cannon,” could be considered a criminal act of inciting panic and disorder.
Ponoš initially accused the government of deploying a sonic device against peaceful protesters at a silent vigil commemorating victims of the Novi Sad railway station canopy collapse. This protest was among the largest in Serbia’s history, drawing hundreds of thousands of participants who demanded accountability for the railway station tragedy. During the event, the crowd unexpectedly dispersed in a brief stampede, with many attendees later reporting an unusual loud noise that preceded the chaos.
The Serbian authorities have initiated an investigation to assess whether the alleged sound cannon incident was staged or misrepresented. This involves questioning protest organizers, participants, and others who have publicly commented on the event. Ponoš further alleged that details from his police interview were leaked to a pro-government media outlet immediately after the questioning concluded.
Meanwhile, a coalition of Serbian civil society organizations has urged the United Nations to conduct an independent fact-finding mission to determine if a sonic device was indeed used during the protest. These groups argue that the investigation within Serbia has become politically influenced, compromising its impartiality and thoroughness.