Anna Hartz
Public protests often bring tension between citizens and the state. When crowds gather in large numbers, authorities usually rely on police presence and crowd control tools.
In recent months, questions have grown about how far governments are willing to go to maintain control. Serbia now finds itself at the center of a troubling debate.
Studying the Effects of Acoustic Weapons
Serbian intelligence services have tested high-powered sound devices on dogs, according to Digi24. The tests were carried out with help from Russian specialists. According to documents reviewed by Politico, the goal was to study the effects of acoustic weapons. The testing followed major anti-government protests in Belgrade.
During one large protest on March 15, 2025, demonstrators reported a sudden and powerful sound. People said the noise caused panic and physical distress. Many fell to the ground. Others ran in fear. Those who later went to hospitals reported nausea, headaches, dizziness, and vomiting. Some compared the sound to a train or a group of motorcycles.
The Serbian government denied using sound cannons on protesters. President Aleksandar Vučić promised a full investigation. Interior Minister Ivica Dačić said no illegal methods were used. A later report from Serbia’s intelligence agency claimed that no acoustic weapons were deployed and that protesters suffered no mass physical or psychological harm.
Despite these statements, internal documents show that animal testing took place. About two weeks after the protest, Serbian and Russian intelligence experts gathered dogs at a testing range. The animals were chosen because of their sensitivity to sound. The tests examined how sound transmitters affected living beings.
Sound Levels Similar to Jet Engines
The dogs were exposed to two types of Long-Range Acoustic Devices. These devices can produce extremely loud noise. At full power, they can reach levels similar to a jet engine during takeoff. The tests were carried out at distances ranging from 25 to 200 meters.
Documents suggest the tests may not have received proper approval. Serbia’s Agriculture Ministry said it had no record of any request to conduct experiments on dogs. Serbian law requires special authorization and ethical approval for animal testing. It also bans experiments involving weapons or military equipment.
Human rights lawyer Danilo Ćurčić said the dogs may have been abused under Serbian law. Opposition politician Radomir Lazović accused the government of trying to hide the use of sound weapons on citizens.
Russian officials involved in the testing claimed the dogs showed no signs of discomfort. They said follow-up checks found no lasting effects.
The controversy has raised serious concerns. It has deepened public mistrust. It has also added pressure on a government already facing widespread protests and growing criticism.
Sources: Digi24
