A shocking incident at Zagreb’s central bus station has raised new concerns about migrant policy and public safety in Croatia.
Rising tensions with migrant-related incidents
What was once unthinkable in Croatia has now happened. As the number of migrants and foreign workers increases, so does the number of incidents involving them. Fortunately, these events have not yet reached the dramatic scale seen in some Western countries. However, how long that will remain the case is uncertain.
The Croatian public was particularly shocked last week when a migrant attacked a female police officer at the Zagreb Bus Station. The officer sustained minor injuries, was transported to hospital, and later discharged for home recovery.
Suspect arrested and concerns rise
Several hours after the attack, the migrant was arrested and taken into custody. Historically, Croatian police have sometimes delayed releasing information on similar incidents involving migrants. This delay has left the public space open to speculation, rumours, and even misinformation.
This time, however, the police union was the first to speak out. This is likely due to the fact that the victim was one of their own. It was confirmed that the attacker is a 32-year-old migrant from Morocco, previously deported from several European countries for criminal activity.
Calls for stronger legal action and deportation
“Legal steps should be taken by the Ministry of the Interior—to file a criminal complaint and ensure deportation. Given that this individual was deported from Germany and Denmark and is a repeat offender, we believe he has no place in the Republic of Croatia,” the union stated.
They further noted that, based on internal information, this was not an isolated case. Several attacks by foreign nationals on police officers have been reported, although such details remain officially unconfirmed.
Lack of transparency from authorities questioned
“We’ve received information about other attacks on officers by foreigners, but the Ministry should be the one to clarify. They have more complete data,” the union added. They also voiced concern that it was the union—not the police—who first informed the public of the attack.
The current Croatian government appears to present such cases in a subdued manner, seemingly to avoid inflaming public tension. Additionally, they aim to discourage vigilantism.
How the EU asylum system impacts Croatia
This case sheds light on a wider issue. It appears Croatia was the first EU country the Moroccan migrant entered, where he then applied for asylum before continuing westward. As a result, countries like Germany—where he most recently resided—can now legally deport him back to Croatia.
With Germany’s new Chancellor Friedrich Merz pledging to deport large numbers of migrants currently residing in the country, Croatia could face a surge in returns. Reports suggest up to 15,000 migrants could be sent back to Croatia. Records show it was their first EU entry point.
Time for a firmer Croatian stance?
Although a mass influx of migrants is not guaranteed, Croatia must be prepared and adopt a firm policy on the matter. When Merz previously suggested returning migrants to Greece and Austria, those countries firmly refused.
Perhaps Croatia too should take a stronger stance and refuse entry to repeat offenders. This latest assault on a police officer is a stark reminder of the potential consequences of leniency in such cases.
See related story: Will Croatia Become Europe’s New Migrant Prison?
