“On July 6, the gathering of citizens protesting the manifestation in front of the Parliament building exceeded the limits of the law on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. The manifestation of people gathered in the vicinities of the First Classical Gymnasium and the Kashveti Temple developed in a violent manner,” reports the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
The MIA says at this stage, 100 people have been administratively detained for facts of violation. Among them, 68 were released on the basis of the acknowledgement, while 32 remain in temporary detention.
Patrol police officers arrested two citizens at the scene.
“I.Kh. (DoB 1989) was arrested for violence against a “Palitra News” cameraman and unlawful interference with the journalist’s professional activities. The investigation is in progress under Articles 154, Part II and 126 envisaged by the Criminal Code of Georgia.
“Second detainee G.Sh. (DoB1965) damaged the side windshield of a patrol police vehicle. Investigation is in progress on the fact of damage or destruction of another person’s property committed on purpose under Article 187 of the Criminal Code of Georgia.
“During both manifestations on Rustaveli Avenue, the police took all appropriate measures defined by the law so that the expression of protest was held in the most peaceful environment. Regardless of numerous calls, demonstrators offered resistance to the representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, threw various objects, as a result of which three law enforcement officers were injured. Owning to the violent actions, police vehicles were also damaged.
“The Ministry of Internal Affairs will make a relevant legal assessment with regard to the illegal actions exposed on July 6 on Rustaveli Avenue. Each fact of violation will be responded to accordingly by the representatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs,” said the investigative agency.
By Ana Dumbadze
Related Story: Parliament Speaker Raises EU Flag Lowered by Pride Opponents
