Two individuals, identified as Z. V. and N. Č., were arrested on November 5, 2026, in Novi Sad, Serbia, as part of a corruption investigation led by the Special Department of the Higher Public Prosecutor’s Office. The arrests are linked to an embezzlement scheme that defrauded the local company ‘Naftachem Petrol’ DOO Novi Sad of over 31 million dinars. The investigation also continues to search for a third suspect involved in the case.

Z. V., who served as the assistant director of commercial affairs at Naftachem Petrol, is accused of abusing his position to orchestrate fraudulent activities throughout 2025. The scheme involved the creation of false contracts for the continuous sale of motor fuels with four different companies. These contracts were used to justify the issuance of company fuel cards, which were then distributed to unauthorized individuals. These individuals used the cards to obtain fuel from Naftachem Petrol’s stations across Vojvodina, Serbia.

N. Č. is alleged to have assisted Z. V. by providing a company stamp and blank promissory notes from one of the implicated companies. N. Č. reportedly received the fuel cards from Z. V. and further facilitated their use. This fraudulent activity resulted in a substantial financial loss for Naftachem Petrol, totaling 31,176,414.76 dinars.

The Special Department for Combating Corruption has ordered the detention of Z. V. and N. Č. for up to 48 hours, during which they will be brought in for questioning. The investigation remains active, with authorities pursuing additional leads and searching for other potential suspects involved in the embezzlement.

This case highlights ongoing concerns about corporate governance and corruption within Serbia. Embezzlement and corruption cases have been a recurring issue in the country, with several high-profile arrests in recent years. The current investigation into Naftachem Petrol’s losses underscores the need for stringent oversight and accountability in business operations to prevent similar fraudulent activities.

As the investigation progresses, further developments are anticipated, particularly with the ongoing search for additional suspects. The outcome of this case could have broader implications for corporate practices and legal compliance in Serbia, potentially prompting more rigorous enforcement of anti-corruption measures.