Rogatica Municipality denies claims of “sect” activity, urges citizens not to spread rumours

Some posts went further, claiming that “children should not go outside alone” and alleging that “three teachers were dismissed for recruiting children,” among other unverified statements.

Following the growing public debate online, the Municipality of Rogatica issued an official statement, stressing that there have been no confirmed reports suggesting any organised activities that could threaten public safety or citizens’ rights.

According to the statement, the municipality is working closely with relevant institutions—primarily the local police station and the Centre for Social Work—to monitor the situation and respond within its jurisdiction should verified information emerge.

Officials also noted that they are in continuous communication with the clergy of the Serbian Orthodox Church parish in Rogatica.

“We want to emphasise that, based on available information, there are currently no official reports or confirmed data indicating the existence of organised activities that would endanger the safety of citizens, public order and peace, or legally guaranteed individual rights,” the statement reads.

The municipality highlighted that every citizen has the right to freedom of opinion, religious belief and personal choice in line with existing laws. It added that no one has the right to apply pressure, manipulation, psychological harassment or any other form of intimidation, nor to undermine family and social relations or violate the dignity of others.

At the same time, officials warned that spreading unverified information and publicly naming individuals can cause serious harm not only to those targeted and their families, but also to the wider community, potentially deepening misunderstandings and tensions.

The municipality encouraged residents with concrete concerns regarding behaviour that may indicate abuse or violations of rights to contact competent institutions.

“Our community has always been built on mutual respect, family values and solidarity. We believe that only a calm, responsible and institutional approach can preserve trust, stability and the safety of all our citizens,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, as the debate continued on social media, some Rogatica residents stated that the group in question is not a sect, but Evangelists, who cooperate with the Serbian Orthodox Church through the Interreligious Council of Bosnia and Herzegovina. They stressed that the group’s activities are in accordance with entity and state laws.

They also warned that threats or attempts to expel individuals due to religious beliefs constitute criminal offences, including incitement of national, racial and religious hatred.

Evangelical and Protestant churches are legally registered with the Ministry of Justice of Bosnia and Herzegovina.