Patrick Drid, dean of Novi Sad’s Faculty of Sport and Physical Education, was assaulted by a crowd of 50-100 people today after publicly rejecting the legitimacy of ongoing student protests. The incident occurred as tensions escalate between university staff and demonstrators who have occupied academic buildings across Serbia in recent weeks.
Drid sustained a torn knee ligament and multiple minor injuries during the attack. He described how emergency medical teams responding to the scene were also assaulted, with protesters allegedly seizing ambulance keys. “The physical pain is nothing compared to the shame I feel that so many people could act with such malice,” Drid told Informer TV, visibly shaken by the experience.
— Niko (@Niko50714468) April 28, 2025
The dean emphasized his primary concern remains students who want to study but cannot access campuses due to blockades. “We’ve moved classes online because protesters have completely blocked faculty access,” he stated, adding that examinations may also need to be conducted virtually if the situation persists. Drid repeatedly characterized the protest movement as being directed by unidentified “third parties” rather than genuine student concerns.
— Niko (@Niko50714468) April 28, 2025
University officials confirmed the attack while expressing alarm over growing violence on campuses. Medical staff who treated Drid corroborated his account of being targeted alongside first responders. The incident has intensified national debate about protest methods, with some academics expressing fear about returning to work amid the unrest.
Najjači narod vata krme i rukama izbacuje pic.twitter.com/SRAt1saEN4
— Трбушњак Дарије Ставрович (@donjovranjac) April 28, 2025
Local police have not yet made any arrests or publicly identified suspects. The attack marks one of the most violent confrontations since protests began, raising questions about potential radicalization among demonstrators. University administrators are reportedly meeting with government officials to discuss enhanced security measures for academic staff.
— Niko (@Niko50714468) April 28, 2025
— Niko (@Niko50714468) April 28, 2025
— Niko (@Niko50714468) April 28, 2025
