The Ministry of Internal Affairs says police have detained five minors on charges of stealing goods from pharmacy and grocery store chains in Tbilisi, as well as citizens’ mopeds.
The Ministry adds that officers from the Main Juvenile Affairs Division of the Tbilisi Police Department detained the suspects at different times under court orders. Three of the five minors have previous convictions and are currently serving suspended sentences.
Investigators allege that the suspects acted together to steal products from retail outlets before fleeing the scene. One of the defendants is also accused of unlawfully taking possession of mopeds belonging to private citizens.
The Ministry states the thefts caused financial losses of more than GEL 14,000 to the affected businesses.
Police notes that the surveillance camera footage recovered during the investigation supports the allegations against the suspects.
The investigation is underway under Articles 177 (theft) and 178 of the Criminal Code. The offenses carry a prison sentence of up to eight years if convicted.
