AI-Generated Deepfake Videos Spread in Montenegro Fugitive Case
Videos using AI-generated deepfake technology allegedly depicting fugitive Miloš Medenica were published on social media in February 2026, reportedly aimed at undermining law enforcement credibility. While Montenegrin authorities conducted forensic analysis indicating AI generation, civil society organizations noted the lack of publicly presented evidence definitively confirming the videos were synthetic.
What happened
Starting 1 February 2026, videos allegedly showing Miloš Medenica, a fugitive from home detention in Montenegro, were published on platform X (formerly Twitter). Medenica had been under house arrest following his conviction on 28 January 2026 for organized crime, smuggling, and unlawful influence, with a sentence exceeding 10 years.
The Ministry of Interior of Montenegro announced the same day that the videos were created using artificial intelligence and constituted manipulative content with 'deceptive information aimed at undermining the professional credibility and reputation of the management of the Ministry of Interior and the Police Directorate.' Multiple similar videos subsequently appeared on social networks.
Reported impact
Civil society representatives and experts stated that no forensic evidence had been publicly presented to definitively prove the videos were AI-generated. Snežana Nikičević from the non-governmental organization 35mm stated that 'the public currently has no proof that this is the real Medenica, but there is also no publicly presented forensic evidence that would definitively close the story that everything is AI.'
Index analysis
Forensic analysis conducted by the Ministry of Interior indicated the presence of anomalies linked to AI generation and digital manipulation. The MUP noted that determining whether video material has been altered using artificial intelligence is a complex process, with results typically expressed as probability estimates of AI manipulation in percentages.
The Ministry identified challenges in verification including platform X's frequent changes to video quality and removal of traces that would facilitate analysis, as well as the capability of modern AI models to create visually convincing content. Analysis of the broader context of accounts distributing the content, including posting history, behavioral patterns, and content frequency, confirmed that a significant proportion of published material appeared to be created using AI technology.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.