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Serbia prosecutes 13 for train station awning collapse

Prosecutors in the northern Serbian city of Novi Sad submitted an indictment on Monday against 13 people in connection with the collapse of a train station awning last month that eliminated 15 people and sparked a wave of protests.

The concrete awning of the recently refurbished roofing collapsed on Nov. 1, killing 14 and hurting 3. Among those injured later passed away of their injuries.

Trainees, opposition fans and the public have required to the streets consistently after the accident, which they blamed on widespread government corruption and nepotism that resulted in inferior construction. The federal government rejects the accusations.

In a statement, the Higher Public Prosecutor's Office in Novi Sad, stated it had actually prosecuted officials and executives including the previous minister of infrastructure, his deputy and the designers and supervisors of the restoration project.

The indictment was brought ... due to warranted suspicion that they have actually dedicated a severe offense versus general safety, ... triggered basic threat ... and (for) irregular and incorrect building and construction works, it said.

In line with Serbian law, the indictment just recognized the offenders utilizing their initials.

Transportation, Building and Infrastructure Minister Goran Vesic, Trade Minister Tomislav Momirovic and the head of state-run Serbian Railways have resigned over the event.

On Nov. 4, Vesic stated he would resign, but that he might not accept obligation for the accident in Novi Sad.

On Nov. 21, police detained 11 people in connection with the accident, including Vesic, whom the court released from detention on Nov. 27.

Serbia's populist president, Aleksandar Vucic, said those accountable should be held to account.

(source: Reuters)