Deputy Interior Minister: investigation underway to identify, detain those involved in illegal acts at Tbilisi protest

Georgian Deputy Interior Minister Aleksandre Darakhvelidze on Saturday said an investigation had been launched into the illegal and violent actions carried out by organisers and participants of the ongoing protest in the capital city of Tbilisi.

He said the investigation was covering offences including assault on police officers, calls for violent overthrow of constitutional order, property damage, organising or participating in group violence, and attempts to seize or block strategic facilities.

“Throughout the day, protesters had the opportunity to express their views peacefully. Despite repeated calls from law enforcement to keep the protest within the limits of the law, participants ignored lawful instructions,” Darakhvelidze said.

He added that demonstrators damaged barriers outside the presidential residence on Atoneli Street and attempted to storm the building, while incidents of violence were recorded. Fourteen police officers were injured after objects were thrown at them, with one in critical condition.

“To restore public order, the Ministry used special means as provided by law,” Darakhvelidze noted, stressing that all necessary investigative and procedural measures would be taken to identify and detain those who committed unlawful acts.

The Deputy Minister once again called on protesters to comply with police instructions:

“We urge all participants to refrain from artificially escalating the situation. Otherwise, law enforcement officers will apply all measures permitted by law,” he warned.