NGO founder arrested on espionage charges, Georgian Security Service says

Georgia’s State Security Service on Saturday said it had arrested a Georgian citizen on espionage charges, alleging that the suspect was linked to the intelligence services of two foreign countries.

The body added the detainee is the founder and head of a non-governmental organisation and had established information platforms and organised various events across the country.

According to investigators, the suspect systematically collected and transmitted intelligence-related information to foreign intelligence agencies over a number of years in exchange for financial gain and in pursuit of foreign interests.

The security service alleges that the individual maintained regular covert contacts with representatives of foreign intelligence services through both in-person meetings and electronic communications. Some meetings reportedly took place outside Georgia for security and operational purposes.

The body further claimed that, with funding and instructions from foreign intelligence agencies, the suspect created information platforms and coordinated activities aimed at advancing the objectives of those services.

Authorities also allege that the individual simultaneously cooperated with the intelligence agencies of two separate foreign states.

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