Georgian Interior Ministry urges protesters to obey police orders, warns against escalation

The Ministry of Internal Affairs on Monday called on participants of the protest on Melikishvili Avenue in the capital city of Tbilisi to comply with police instructions and avoid artificially escalating the situation.

In its statement, the MIA said law enforcement officers intervened immediately after clashes broke out between citizens near the election headquarters of incumbent Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze, taking measures to defuse tensions and prevent further escalation.

“We urge participants of the gathering to obey lawful orders of the police and not allow artificial escalation of the situation. Otherwise, law enforcement officers will resort to measures defined by law, and each violation will be followed by appropriate legal response,” the statement reads.

According to protesters, representatives of the ruling Georgian Dream party physically assaulted demonstrators, hurled insults, and threw objects at them. Several participants sustained injuries during the clashes.

The demonstrators are currently marching towards the Parliament building.