Ombudsman flags alleged police abuse at Tbilisi protest

Georgia’s Public Defender on Tuesday pointed to possible police misconduct during a protest in Tbilisi on Monday, after visiting three detainees held under administrative charges.

Pro-European protests were sparked in Georgia following the Georgian Dream Government’s decision late last year to halt the country’s EU integration until 2028.

According to the Ombudsman’s Office, two of the individuals reported experiencing excessive force, verbal abuse, and other forms of ill-treatment by law enforcement. The Office has since referred the case to the Special Investigation Service for further legal action.

It also stated that additional legal steps would be taken in response to other potential human rights violations linked to the protest.

Citizens are encouraged to report any such violations via the Public Defender’s hotline at 148.