The attacker in Cetinje, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, had a history of possessing illegal weapons, some of which were seized from him in 2022. But police said the gun used in his attack was owned illegally.

“We will adopt a new law, and those with permits will have until January 2026 to undergo new, stricter security and health screenings,” Spajic said.

Montenegro Prime Minister Milojko Spajic has vowed his government will crack down on illegal firearms. Source: Getty / Sean Gallup

A history of gun culture

“What can I say about this case? Sadness, sadness, silence… This is not the first case. All of this is a consequence of uncontrolled arms-carrying,” pensioner Boro Bozovic, 76, told Agence France-Presse during a vigil for the victims.

People lighting candles for the victims of the Cetinje shootings during a vigil in Podogrica, Montenegro. Source: AAP, AP / Risto Bozovic

The last mass shooting in the town of Cetinje, 40km west of the capital Podgorica, occurred in 2022.

A gunman killed 10 people during that rampage, including two children, before he was shot dead.

Protesters demand accountability

“The tragedy in Cetinje is a heavy burden for our small country,” Spajic said.