Edik Kvaratskhelia, the former head of the sports department in Georgia’s western Chkhorotsku municipality city hall, has been arrested on charges related to an altercation with the mayor of Chkhorotsku, Dato Gogua.

The altercation led to Kvaratskhelia being questioned by the police on Sunday, culminating in his subsequent arrest.

The incident, which occurred on March 1, saw Kvaratskhelia allegedly confronting Mayor Dato Gogua during the latter's visit to Mukhuri village to oversee the works at a micro-electric power station. Reports suggested the confrontation stemmed from Kvaratskhelia's dismissal from his position.

In response to the allegations, Kvaratskhelia claimed "we are friends, we are teammates. I saw him three days ago... I have appealed my dismissal. I am entitled to return to my job without any reason. I still have a lot of work to do, and I will do it."

If found guilty, the detainee could face a maximum sentence of up to two years in prison.