The Russian-controlled occupation forces have illegally arrested two citizens of Georgia in the occupied territory near the village of Knolevi, Kareli municipality, as reported by the Georgian State Security Service on Friday.

The agency further stated that the European Union Monitoring Mission's hotline was “promptly” activated following the citizens' arrest. Information regarding the incident was “swiftly provided” to the co-chairs of the Geneva International Discussions and international partners, SSS added. 

"All available mechanisms have been mobilized to secure the release of the illegally detained Georgian citizens at the earliest opportunity. Responsibility for all disruptive actions occurring in the occupied territories of Georgia, as well as along the occupation line, lies with the occupying power," SSS said. 

Knolevi village in the Kareli municipality is situated near the occupation dividing line. Occupation forces have installed poles and laid wires as part of the so-called border infrastructure. A significant portion of the village's pastures and arable land now falls within the occupied territory.

According to Knolevi residents, since the 2008 Russia-Georgia war, access to this area has been restricted, rendering the land unusable for agricultural purposes or grazing.

Currently, seven Georgian citizens remain in the occupied Tskhinvali prison and detention center.