The people of Medjugorje lose their speakers because of the loud music, they are threatened with fines: 'This is a riot'

In the small town of Pribislavec, near Čakovec in Međimurje County, local authorities have intensified efforts to curb excessive noise pollution caused by loud music played through speakers. Over the past month and a half, police have confiscated 33 sound systems, some so large they could not fit into a patrol car, prompting warnings of fines or even jail time. The issue has become a recurring problem, with officers reporting that such incidents often occur during summer weekends, particularly late at night, when residents complain about disturbing noise levels. The police department has stated that loud music violates public order and peace laws, which allow for monetary fines ranging from 300 to 2,000 euros or up to 30 days in prison. According to spokesperson Radovan Gačal, the situation has persisted for years, with some cases involving sound systems so massive they required a truck to transport them back to the police station. “We had one instance where the speaker was too big to fit into a regular police vehicle,” he explained. Residents of Pribislavec continue to report disturbances daily, especially during nighttime hours. Mayor Matija Ladić noted that complaints come in almost daily, and he personally receives these reports regularly. He urged locals to respect the law and avoid using speakers in ways that disrupt public tranquility. “Most of us deserve our quiet time after work,” he said, adding that he hopes the community will comply with regulations. Local citizens have echoed similar sentiments. Alenka Novak from Čakovec emphasized the need for quiet spaces, especially for families with children or elderly members. “If someone has young kids or sick relatives, this kind of noise can really bother them,” she said. Juraj Gregor described the current state of affairs as “raspašoj”, a term used to describe chaos or disorder, while his wife Katica Gregor suggested that while music is part of youth culture, it should not interfere with others' rest. Legal proceedings determine whether confiscated speakers are returned or permanently taken away. Gačal explained that typically, first-time offenders see their equipment returned, but repeat offenders face permanent confiscation. Data from the Čakovec Municipal Court shows that seven speakers were permanently seized in the first six months of this year, with two returned. Last year, 18 speakers were permanently taken, with three returned. Speakers that are permanently confiscated are either sold at public auctions or disposed of at recycling facilities if they are in poor condition. Police continue to urge the public to abide by noise regulations, warning that repeated violations could result in the loss of both audio devices and legal rights. “Do not let loud music disturb public order,” they advised, emphasizing that such actions could lead to the eventual removal of personal property from private possession.