The Special Investigation Service of Georgia on Monday conducted a search at the home of well-known sports commentator Sandro Tsnobiladze, an active participant of ongoing protests in the country against the Government’s decision last year to halt EU integration until 2028.
According to officials, the operation was carried out based on a complaint alleging the illegal acquisition of intimate photos.
“An investigation is underway based on the complaint of the victim regarding the illegal acquisition of intimate photos depicting her private life,” an investigator told the press. Authorities clarified that the search was conducted in connection with “the person with whom the search was conducted.” However, no formal charges have been filed.
Following the search, Tsnobiladze spoke to the media, expressing frustration over the raid and its impact on his family.
“They came in the morning, several people. One thing is for sure – if they had anything against me at all, I would not be here now. As you can see, I am not detained,” he said.
He described the search as distressing, particularly for his 81-year-old mother, and noted that investigators seized his laptops, disks, and phone. According to Tsnobiladze, much of the confiscated material was related to his sports journalism work.
“The maximum that they took away from me and that they can see is the successes of the Argentine national team and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s goals,” he said, dismissing the allegations as “a method of blackmail.”
Tsnobiladze, a vocal supporter of the ongoing pro-European protests in Georgia, suggested that his activism may be a factor in the investigation.
Tsnobiladze is one of many activists whose homes have been searched in recent months. Since November 28, 2024, pro-European demonstrations have continued across Georgia for 89 consecutive days. A number of protesters have faced police scrutiny, raising concerns about potential political pressure on activists and public figures.
