Tbilisi City Court has ordered Lasha Tsanava, a member of the United National Movement, to be held in custody pending trial. Judge Mikheil Jinjolia made the decision following a hearing on the prosecution’s request for the strictest preventive measure.
Prosecutor Giorgi Kavsadze alleged that Tsanava contacted a foreign citizen via WhatsApp, offering to secure a one-year Georgian residence permit for $5,600. The individual reportedly transferred $150 to Tsanava’s account via a TBC Bank branch and later handed over part of the agreed amount. The case includes covert audio and video evidence.
Kavsadze claimed Tsanava boasted of influential connections and used his own bank accounts, adding that other individuals may be involved and that Tsanava could influence them if released.
Tsanava’s lawyer, Lasha Tkhesheladze, called the charges fabricated, claiming the foreign nationals involved were agent-provocateurs who reported the incident to the State Security Service rather than the police. He denied any risk of flight or obstruction of justice and argued for Tsanava’s release.
The court sided with the prosecution. Tsanava was arrested by the State Security Service’s Anti-Corruption Agency and charged with attempted large-scale fraud—a crime punishable by a fine or six to nine years in prison.
Lasha Tsanava says that after his detention, representatives of the State Security Service (SSS) told him that he would be released if he secretly recorded his colleague and friend, Levan Khabeishvili.
Tsanava made the following statement during his court hearing:
“It’s clear why I was detained. Two high-ranking officials came to the ‘Moduli’ building and spoke to me. They offered me freedom and a large sum of money in exchange for recording every move of my closest friend, Levan Khabeishvili—where he goes, who he talks to. I am part of Levan’s inner circle. The SSS top boss, who Levan has mentioned multiple times, is Anri Okhanashvili, who is furious with Levan. They wanted me to record him, listen to him, and cooperate with them. I would never do such a thing in my life. For me, honor and loyalty come first,” Tsanava stated.
Related story: SSSG arrests UNM Council member Lasha Tsanava for alleged residence permit fraud
