Seven charged for obstructing journalists from Georgian Public Broadcaster, Imedi TV, Rustavi 2 during October 4 protest

The Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia has charged seven individuals in connection with the obstruction of journalists’ professional activities during a protest rally held in Tbilisi on October 4, the body said on Thursday.

The agency added the investigation determined that the defendants illegally interfered with the work of film crews from the Georgian Public Broadcaster, Imedi TV and Rustavi 2. The interference allegedly involved the use of pepper spray, physical obstruction and threats of violence on Atoneli Street and its surrounding area.

Six of the accused were charged under Article 154, Part 1 of Georgia’s Criminal Code, which criminalises unlawful interference in a journalist’s professional activities, including coercing them to disseminate or withhold information. The offence is punishable by a fine, community service, up to two years of correctional labour, or house arrest for up to two years.

One defendant faces more severe charges under Article 154, Part 2, for committing the offence with threats of violence, which carries a penalty of a fine, up to two years of imprisonment, and/or deprivation of the right to hold a position or engage in certain activities for up to three years.

The Prosecutor’s Office said it would apply to the Tbilisi City Court to request preventive measures against the defendants within the timeframe established by law.

The investigation continues to identify other individuals involved in the incident.