The Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) announced the arrest of 224 individuals during the December 1-2 protests on Rustaveli Avenue near the Parliament. Also, three were detained on charges of attacking police officers and setting property on fire, Georgian Public Broadcaster reports.
According to the MIA, the protests turned violent, resulting in injuries to 21 police officers, some with severe head and body injuries. Over the course of the recent demonstrations, a total of 113 officers were injured, with four still receiving medical care.
“The public witnessed violent groups damaging the Parliament building and infrastructure on Rustaveli Avenue. Late at night, rally participants vandalized municipal and private property on Rustaveli Avenue, made barricades from the damaged items, and set fires.
To inform the public, we clarify that the Ministry of Internal Affairs is investigating all criminal acts committed by violent groups under Articles 187 and 353 (1) of the Criminal Code of Georgia, as part of the ongoing protests.
As a result of operational measures and investigative actions by the Tbilisi Police Department, two individuals have been charged for attacking police officers while performing their official duties and for damaging property by arson: M.G. (born 2007) and G.M. (born 2003), who has multiple past convictions.
These crimes are punishable by up to seven years in prison.
The investigation revealed that on November 29, during the rally on Rustaveli Avenue and April 9 Street, G.M. inflicted multiple injuries on a Ministry of Internal Affairs employee by firing pyrotechnics, requiring that officer to receive medical assistance. On the same day, M.G. threw an ignited object into the legislative body’s building, leading to a fire in one of the parliamentary rooms.
Following investigations, both individuals were arrested in Tbilisi. In total three persons have been arrested for attacking police officers during their official duties and for property damage.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs continues its investigation to identify and apprehend all those who committed crimes.
We emphasize that every illegal act will result in an appropriate legal response from law enforcement.
Furthermore, we want to provide information on those arrested for petty hooliganism and resisting police during the recent protest near the Parliament of Georgia. A total of 224 individuals were arrested under the Code of Administrative Offenses.
Administrative case materials for 98 individuals were submitted to the Tbilisi City Court. Of these, litigation has been completed for 74, resulting in fines for 36; administrative detention was applied to 34 individuals; and notices were issued to 4 individuals.
Proceedings for administrative offenses against the remaining individuals continue in court,” MIA stated.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to ensuring public order and called on protest organizers to adhere to legal frameworks, warning that any illegal actions would face legal consequences. Protests are expected to continue in Tbilisi and other cities in Georgia.
