The Thin Line Between Order and Abuse
In a democratic society, the police uniform is not a symbol of absolute power, but a guarantee of public order, which must operate at every second within the strict framework of the law. However, recent events on the ground have once again called into question the way law enforcement structures apply the basic principles of the rule of law, marking serious episodes of overstepping authority and using coercive tools against citizens and journalists.
Spray, Violence, and Violation of Freedom of Expression
Recent incidents during public gatherings have highlighted a climate of unjustified tension. According to reports coming from the scene, police officials, among them Ervin Hasrama, have been involved in direct acts of violence and pressure against protesters.
Instead of carrying out their duty to facilitate order and guarantee safety, officers used coercive means — such as chemical sprays — against citizens who were simply holding acoustic devices, such as megaphones, and communicating without causing any physical danger or violent clash. Such actions are not only a display of unnecessary force, but a direct attack on freedom of expression and the constitutional right to protest.
Lack of Proportionality and Violation of the Police Law
The conduct displayed by officers on the ground openly contradicts Law No. 108/2014 “On the State Police.” According to this legal framework:
- Principle of Proportionality: Force and special means may be used only when absolutely necessary and in direct proportion to the degree of danger posed by the resistance. The use of spray against a citizen speaking through a megaphone is a flagrant violation of this principle.
- Personal Responsibility: Every police employee is personally responsible before the law for unlawful orders and actions undertaken in the exercise of his function.
A Blow Against the Media: The Case of Journalist Vjolanda Peca
Part of this chain of abuses was also the pressure exerted on journalists following the event. The case of journalist Vjolanda Peca being escorted and kept isolated while she was carrying out her duty to report on the event clearly shows the tendency of law enforcement structures to shut off the eyes of public opinion and obstruct media transparency.
Call for an Investigation by the Police Oversight Agency
In the face of this unacceptable level of arbitrariness, civil society and public opinion are demanding an urgent response.
The Police Oversight Agency (AMP) must immediately launch an independent, transparent, and thorough investigation to identify and bring to justice every individual in uniform who abused their duty, endangered the safety of citizens, and violated the fundamental freedoms guaranteed by law. Impunity for those who are supposed to protect the law is the greatest threat to the safety of every citizen.