Tuzi Nik Gjeloshaj

Mayor of Tuzi Nik Gjeloshaj at a press conference. Photo: Government of Montenegro

"The government discriminates against Albanians and does not cooperate with our municipality. The reasons are various but it's mostly because of the hatred they have for the people who live in this area," Gjeloshaj told BIRN, referencing his Wednesday complaint.

Empty streets in Tuzi. Photo: BIRN/Samir Kajosevic

Government vice-president Milutin Simovic told locals on Tuesday night that they would have to remain at home until further notice. "Without exception, all citizens of Tuzi must be at their homes. We are beginning a battle for this town and for all of Montenegro," Simovic told a press conference.