The Supreme Court of Slovakia has ruled that Juraj C., the man accused of attempting to assassinate Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, will remain in custody. The court overturned a previous ruling by the Specialized Criminal Court and upheld pre-trial detention, citing concerns that the suspect could reoffend if released.
The decision was made during a closed hearing on Tuesday, according to Supreme Court spokesperson Alexandra Važanová. While the court acknowledged that the risk of flight has subsided, it maintained that the threat of continued criminal activity remains sufficient to justify his ongoing detention.
Juraj C. is charged with carrying out a terrorist attack against Prime Minister Fico on May 15, 2023, in the town of Handlová, where the Slovak government was holding a public meeting at the local cultural center. The incident occurred as Fico approached a group of citizens outside the venue. He was shot multiple times and sustained serious injuries.
The case initially began as a charge of attempted premeditated murder of a protected person, filed by the now-disbanded National Criminal Agency (NAKA). It was later reclassified as an act of terrorism, a charge carrying significantly more severe legal consequences.
On March 17, 2024, prosecutors filed a formal indictment with the Specialized Criminal Court. The case file comprises 18 volumes and over 6,200 pages, underscoring the complexity and gravity of the proceedings.
The assassination attempt sent shockwaves through Slovakia and prompted heightened security for political figures. It also sparked intense public and political debate over extremism and political violence in the country.
As the trial moves forward, the court’s decision to keep Juraj C. behind bars reflects the seriousness of the charges and the state’s effort to prevent any further risk to public safety.
For continued updates on this high-profile case and political developments in Central Europe, visit LiveWorldUpdates.com.
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