SOVLAB researcher reportedly attacked near organization’s office

Researcher Badri Okujava from the Soviet Past Research Laboratory (SOVLAB) was assaulted near the organization’s office in Tbilisi. Okujava stated that a group of individuals physically attacked him and sprayed him with paint.

“I was on my way to work, coming out of the Rustaveli metro station when someone called out to me. He accused me of painting walls, which I denied. Soon after, more people arrived, and I was attacked. They hit me and sprayed me with paint. These were clearly supporters of Georgian Dream,” Okujava said, holding the ruling Georgian Dream party responsible for the attack.

Despite the assault, Okujava reported the incident to the police and confirmed he did not sustain any serious injuries. This attack has raised concerns about the safety of individuals involved in politically sensitive research.