Georgia’s Interior Ministry arrests 36th suspect over October 4 protest

The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) of Georgia has announced the arrest of another individual linked to the unrest that took place in Tbilisi on 4 October, bringing the total number of detainees to 36.

The MIA on Thursday said the latest detainee, identified only by the initials G.K., is alleged to have participated in the events that unfolded during the demonstration.

“Law enforcement officers continue investigative actions to identify and bring to justice other individuals involved in the crimes,” the ministry said in an official statement.

The protest on 4 October coincided with Georgia’s local self-government elections. Demonstrators had gathered in central Tbilisi, initially assembling at Freedom Square before marching to Atoneli Street, where the Presidential Administration is located. Some protesters broke through metal barriers and entered the administration’s courtyard before being dispersed by police forces.

The Interior Ministry opened an investigation under four articles of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which include:

• Article 317 – incitement to overthrow or change the constitutional order by force;
  
  

• Article 187 – damage or destruction of property;
  
  

• Article 222 – seizure or blocking of a strategic or particularly important facility;
  
  

• Article 225 – organisation, leadership, or participation in group violence.
  
  

Authorities said the arrests included both organisers and participants accused of engaging in “illegal and violent actions.”

On the night of 4 October, police detained five members of the event’s organising committee - Paata Manjgaladze, Paata Burchuladze, Murtaz Zodelava, Irakli Nadiradze, and Lasha Beridze. All five were remanded in custody by Judge Lela Maridashvili, a former deputy chairperson of the Sagarejo municipal council representing the ruling Georgian Dream party in eastern Georgia.

Two days later, on 6 October, another 13 individuals were arrested, including Beka Machavariani, Aleksandre Gogoladze, Eva Shashiashvili, Giorgi Rurua, Vakhang Pitskhelauri, Davit Sturua, Manuchar Mikeladze, Aleksandre Khabeishvili, Kakhaber Mzhavanadze, Tornike Mchedlishvili, Abo Naveriani, Sergo Megrelishvili, and Davit Zhghenti. Charges have already been formally filed against them.