Two Slovenian ministers resign over murder in Novo Mesto

(Patria) - Slovenian Ministers of Justice Andreja Katič and Interior Boštjan Poklukar resigned today, after a 48-year-old man was beaten to death in front of a bar in Novo Mesto.

The murder occurred on the night between Friday and Saturday after the 48-year-old went to the bar at the invitation of his son, who had called him due to threats from several Roma individuals.

According to initial information, the man was beaten in front of the bar by a group of Roma, but the police have so far arrested one suspect, aged 20, in connection with the incident.

The attacked man sustained severe head injuries, from which he later died, RTV Slovenia reports.

- With my resignation, I want to contribute to calming the situation. Everyone must consider their responsibility - Katič said at an extraordinary press conference.

Minister of the Interior Boštjan Poklukar added that he "takes objective responsibility".

Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob also spoke at the conference, announcing urgent legal changes regarding Roma issues and security.

- Violence does not disappear overnight. It is born in an environment where punishment does not follow deeds, where justice is delayed, and where responsibility loses its meaning. Yesterday's event has shaken us all - Golob said.

President of Slovenia Nataša Pirc Musar has requested an extraordinary session of the National Assembly (Slovenian Parliament) following the tragic event in Novo Mesto.

Leader of the opposition Slovenian Democratic Party Janez Janša called for a rally in Ljubljana, expressing dissatisfaction with the unresolved Roma issues.

The National Security Council, among other things, decided to send additional police forces to Novo Mesto, and if necessary, a special police unit.

The President of the Council of the Roma Community in Slovenia, Jožek Horvat Muc, condemned all acts of violence, as well as violations of security and endangerment of every citizen's life, expressing his deepest condolences to the family of the deceased.

He added that the entire Roma community in southeastern Slovenia must be aware that all steps must be taken to immediately stop the criminal acts of individuals from the Roma community.

Since morning, citizens have been gathering in the center of Novo Mesto, lighting candles for the deceased local resident.