14 arrested, nine properties sealed in anti-prostitution operation in Tbilisi and Kutaisi

Georgia's Central Criminal Police Department, in cooperation with the Prosecutor General's Office, has arrested 14 individuals and sealed nine properties in Tbilisi and Kutaisi as part of an investigation into the facilitation of prostitution and providing premises for prostitution.

The announcement was made on Friday by Grigol Gogochashvili, head of the Anti-Trafficking and Illegal Migration Division of the Central Criminal Police Department.

According to investigators, the arrests were carried out under court authorization following a large-scale police operation. Those detained include citizens of Georgia, China and Thailand.

Law enforcement officials conducted dozens of investigative measures during the probe, including covert audio and video surveillance, which authorities say documented the suspects' alleged criminal activities.

The investigation found that owners and administrators of several establishments employed foreign nationals and facilitated their involvement in prostitution. According to police, the suspects systematically rented premises in Tbilisi and Kutaisi for prostitution-related activities in exchange for payment.

Investigators also alleged that the defendants assisted women involved in prostitution by helping them find clients and, in return, received a portion of the proceeds.

The offenses are punishable by up to four years in prison.