Man charged with child sexual exploitation following investigation in Georgia

A 40-year-old man has been arrested and charged with multiple counts of child sexual exploitation, according to a statement published by Georgia’s Special Investigation Service (SIS) on Friday.

The SIS reported that the accused created fake accounts on Facebook and Instagram, using false names to contact underage girls across several regions of Georgia, including capital Tbilisi, Zugdidi, Senaki, and the Gori municipalities. The investigation identified five separate incidents involving girls aged between 11 and 14.

The suspect deliberately hid his age and identity and sent pornographic photos and videos to the minors. He allegedly engaged them in sexually explicit conversations and, in one case, coerced a minor into sending images and videos of her naked body.

“In particular, the accused contacted a 14-year-old girl in Zugdidi and another in Senaki via fake Facebook Messenger profiles, sent them pornographic materials, and discussed sexual topics,” the SIS said. “He then forced one of the girls to undress and send explicit content.”

Similar actions were reportedly committed against 11-year-old girls in the Gori and 12-year-old girls in Tbilisi.

The man was formally charged by the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia on 1 May with pedophilia and five counts of perverted behaviour. The charges carry a maximum sentence of up to 12 years in prison under Georgian law.

The SIS also said that psychological rehabilitation services will be provided to the victims, fully covered by the state.

“We call on the public to be careful. It is important for all parents to analyse the probability of danger and show maximum attention when their child accesses the Internet,” the agency added.

Members of the public can report similar cases or seek support by contacting the SIS through its 199 hotline, regional offices, and social media.