The SafeJournalists network strongly condemns the physical attack on the TV crew of ALSAT M TV from Skopje, that occurred today while they were covering the large fire at the illegal dumpsite in Vizbegovo, North Macedonia.

According to information provided by our colleagues, journalist Avni Tahiri and cameraman Shenol Hajredini were physically attacked by an individual believed to be the owner of the waste that allegedly caused the fire yesterday in Skopje. The attacker forcibly took Tahiri’s mobile phone and threw it into the fire. Cameraman Hajredini was also assaulted, and his camera was broken during the incident. The Ministry of Interior has apprehended the perpetrator, and the case has been formally reported to the authorities.

The Association of Journalists of Macedonia (AJM) is in contact with the Ministry of Interior and the Public Prosecutor’s Office through their designated contact points for journalist protection, in line with national protocols.

AJM reminds the public and the institutions that, under the most recent amendments to the Criminal Code, any form of attack on journalists in the course of their professional duties is considered a serious criminal offense, punishable by a prison sentence.

This brutal and deliberate act of violence against journalists is an attack not only on individuals but also on the right of the public to be informed about issues of public interest. It is unacceptable that journalists, while performing their work in the field, are exposed to such risks.

“We are witnessing a disturbing pattern where journalists are increasingly targeted with impunity while reporting from the field. This must stop. Institutions have both a legal and moral duty to protect journalists, not only through prosecution but through prevention. We will not accept silence or half-measures,” stated Tamara Filipović, Coordinator of the SafeJournalists Network and Secretary General of the Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia.

The SafeJournalists Network urges the competent institutions to conduct a swift, independent, and effective investigation into this incident and to impose the harshest penalties for the perpetrators, in accordance with the law. A timely and firm response by the authorities will send a clear message that violence against journalists will not be tolerated. We express full support and solidarity with our colleagues from ALSAT M from North Macedonia.

The SafeJournalists Network will inform national and international stakeholders about this incident and will continue to monitor the situation closely.

Any attack on journalists is an attack on democracy, public interest, and fundamental human rights.

Pristina – Skopje – Sarajevo – Zagreb – Belgrade – Podgorica, 10 July 2025

Association of Journalists of Kosovo

Association of Journalists of Macedonia

Association of BH Journalists

Croatian Journalists’ Association

Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia

Trade Union of Media of Montenegro

The source: IJAS

Photo by: Canva