Georgian court denies bail for protesters accused of damaging police barrier in May

A Georgian court has denied bail for Saba Meparishvili and Omar Okribelashvili, who face charges of damaging a 400-GEL police barrier during protests against the controversial “agents’ law” in May. Judge Natia Gudadze upheld their pre-trial detention, despite defense lawyers offering alternatives such as bail or other legal obligations.

Under Article 187, Section 2(g) of Georgia’s Criminal Code, the charges relate to group damage or destruction of property. The offense carries a sentence of three to six years in prison. The Ministry of Internal Affairs claims the damage to the barrier cost 400 GEL, including 250 GEL for the barrier and 150 GEL for repairs.

Defense attorneys argue there is no justification for extended detention and criticized the delay in presenting evidence during the hearing. They accused the court of unnecessarily prolonging proceedings, calling the decision punitive and unjustified.

This case follows legislative amendments introduced after widespread protests in March, which increased penalties for similar offenses. Previously, the maximum sentence was five years in prison. The defendants’ detention has drawn criticism from human rights advocates, who view it as excessive for property damage valued at 400 GEL.