Landslide theory increasingly ruled out in 12-year-old disappearance case, lawyer

The theory that a landslide caused the disappearance of Guram Dadianidze 12 years ago is increasingly being ruled out as the investigation progresses, lawyer Tariel Kakabadze said on Wednesday.

Dadianidze disappeared in the village of Mleta 12 years ago. Investigative measures in the case are continuing.

Kakabadze said reconstructing the events after such a long period was difficult, but expressed confidence that an effective investigation, with the help of the public, could provide credible answers to key questions.

"For years, the version was circulated that a landslide had occurred and Guram Dadianidze had been caught in it. The further we progress, the more this version is being ruled out," Kakabadze said.

He alleged that someone had an interest in obstructing the investigation, preventing the truth from being established and concealing a possible criminal offence.