Official arrested on suspicion of espionage, State Security Service

Georgia’s State Security Service on Tuesday said it had detained a Georgian citizen on suspicion of espionage following months of counterintelligence operations.

In a briefing, officials said the suspect is a senior public servant employed in a state institution, accused of collecting and passing information to a foreign intelligence service.

According to the agency, evidence gathered through investigative measures, including covert operations, indicates the individual used their current position, previous roles and personal connections within government structures to obtain sensitive information against the interests of the state.

The suspect is alleged to have maintained organised and covert contact with a representative of a foreign intelligence service, using encrypted communication and meeting in various locations under strict secrecy arrangements.

Authorities said the transmitted information included classified data related to political and economic developments in Georgia, the activities of law enforcement and security agencies, and information concerning ethnic and religious minorities.

Investigators also allege that, acting on instructions, the suspect worked on creating information platforms aimed at recruiting media representatives and gathering intelligence, including on regional countries, in exchange for financial gain.

The crime carries a prison sentence of between eight and 12 years if proven.