Brutal Attack on Croatian Journalist Dario Topić Highlights Press Risks

December 11, 2024 – Croatia – 

Journalist Dario Topić, editor-in-chief at local outlet Komarilos.com, was violently assaulted in Osijek. He had been investigating alleged irregularities involving a 26-year parking concession held by the Elektromodul company. The company’s co-owner, Damir Taslidžić, lured Topić to his premises under the guise of providing information, then physically beat him—targeting his head and body—immediately after escorting him out of the premises.

Topić sustained injuries requiring treatment at Osijek Clinical Hospital and reported the assault to police and prosecutors. On December 7, Taslidžić was detained on charges of “coercion against a person performing tasks of public interest or in public service,” under Croatian law protecting journalists. Authorities activated the police “safety protocols” for media workers, signaling a recognition of the severity of the attack. He was released on conditions requiring him to stay at least 100 meters away from Topić, with pretrial detention to follow should that be breached.

European media rights groups—including the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR), SafeJournalists Network, ECPMF, EFJ, IPI, and ARTICLE 19—condemned the assault as “brutal” and demanded swift justice in line with the Croatian Penal Code. South East Europe Media Organisation (SEEMO) flagged it as a premeditated attack designed to intimidate journalists performing public-interest work.

While rapid police action and the activation of protective protocols are positive indicators, a pattern of inconsistent enforcement remains. Observers urge robust follow-through: thorough investigations, legal accountability, and expanded protections for journalists, especially when confronting powerful interests. A recent report by ARTICLE 19 warned that despite some implementation of EU media safety standards, Croatian journalists continue to face physical threats and legal pressure, underscoring an urgent need for comprehensive reforms.

Reference – 

https://www.ecpmf.eu/croatia-brutal-assault-on-dario-topic-must-be-punished-swift-activation-of-police-safety-protocols-a-positive-step-forward/#:~:text=Croatia%3A%20Brutal%20assault%20on%20Dario,local%20media%20portal%20Komarilos.com.