Georgian Security Service arrests another citizen on espionage charges

Georgia’s State Security Service on Saturday said it had arrested another Georgian citizen on charges of espionage, alleging that the suspect collected and transmitted information on behalf of a foreign intelligence service.

Speaking at a briefing, First Deputy Head of the body Lasha Maghradze said the suspect had been gathering intelligence-related information and passing it to a foreign intelligence agency.

According to investigators, the individual used personal contacts within journalistic, expert and professional circles to obtain information of interest to a foreign intelligence service and systematically shared it over an extended period.

The body alleges that the suspect maintained regular covert communications with a foreign intelligence operative through encrypted channels and met contacts at various locations under strict security arrangements. Information was reportedly transmitted both in person and electronically using encrypted methods.

Authorities claim the information provided included data on political and economic developments in Georgia and the wider region, including neighbouring countries, as well as information concerning law enforcement and security structures.

The security service further alleges that the suspect managed an intelligence network operating under the cover of an online platform. According to the Security Service, the individual coordinated network members, collected and transmitted information, distributed funds allegedly received from foreign intelligence services and supervised assigned tasks.

Investigators also claim the suspect travelled to other countries at the direction and expense of a foreign intelligence service to gather additional intelligence through contacts abroad.

The crime is punishable by eight to 12 years in prison.