Georgian Public Defender urges accountability after tragic death of Two children in Batumi

Georgian Public Defender Levan Ioseliani has emphasized state responsibility in the tragic deaths of two children in Batumi, urging authorities to conduct a timely and objective investigation.

Ioseliani has also called for the development of effective preventive and response mechanisms to ensure maximum safety in construction areas and public spaces.

“Creating a safe environment for human life and health is the state’s primary obligation. The protection of children’s lives and well-being must be a top priority,” he stated.

The Public Defender’s office issued a statement extending condolences to the victims’ families and the entire nation. The tragedy, they stress, underscores the need for the government to prioritize urban planning and public safety through continuous monitoring and enforcement of safety regulations.

Ioseliani has urged authorities to ensure a swift and objective investigation to identify those responsible and hold them legally accountable and to develop effective safety and response mechanisms for public spaces and construction projects to prevent similar tragedies.

The tragic incident occurred on February 15 in “Dream City”, where two children aged 4 and 5 fell into a water-filled trench. Despite hours-long search efforts and immediate hospitalization, doctors were unable to save them.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs has launched an investigation under Article 116 of the Criminal Code—causing death by negligence.