Interior Minister candidate cites challenges in investigating murder of Georgian citizen by occupation forces

Vakhtang Gomelauri, the nominee for the position of Interior Minister of Georgia, addressed the parliament on Monday, highlighting the complexities surrounding the investigation into the killing of Tamaz Ginturi, a Georgian citizen, by Russian-controlled occupation forces in central Georgia last year.

Gomelauri described the incident in the village of Kirbali as “horrible,” emphasizing that his extensive experience in law enforcement had exposed him to similar cases. However, he underscored the significant hurdles faced in conducting thorough investigations when access to the occupied territory was restricted.

“Investigative actions on the occupied territory present formidable challenges,” Gomelauri stated. “We are constrained in our ability to react effectively due to restrictions on our movement and operations in those areas. Any investigative measures must be coordinated with external parties, including the European Union and its monitoring mission.”

He lamented the limitations imposed on Georgian authorities, pointing out the necessity of tripartite agreements to make “even minor adjustments” to security arrangements along the occupation line.Gomelauri also highlighted the practical difficulties in covering the extensive 391-kilometer occupation line with ministry staff to prevent such incidents, stating that it was “physically impossible” to achieve total surveillance.

The incident in question occurred on November 6, 2023, when Tamaz Ginturi was shot while attempting to open a church door in Kirbali. Another individual accompanying him was abducted but later released by the occupying forces.