The lawyer of former Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili, Mikheil Shakulashvili, stated that Garibashvili has confessed to the crime, received a prison sentence, was fined, and had his vehicles confiscated. The lawyer says Garibashvili is currently being transferred to prison, presumably to Rustavi.
Shakulashvili said that so-called flash drives and similar items were seized from Garibashvili’s residence, along with $6.5 million, which has been confiscated and transferred to the state budget.
He emphasized that Garibashvili has not testified against anyone and does not plan to do so in the future. “He cooperated on his own initiative,” the lawyer said, adding that no additional or new charges have been discussed beyond the existing accusation.
Shakulashvili claimed that Garibashvili was charged with so-called money laundering. “This person confessed to the crime, went to prison, was fined, and his cars were confiscated,” he said.
The lawyer also clarified that Garibashvili’s winery and factory will not be confiscated. He explained that the investigation was provided with bank loan agreements showing that one loan was taken to purchase land and build a factory, while another was used to import and operate equipment. These loans are still being repaid on a monthly basis for their designated purposes.
Shakulashvili further stated that none of the seized gold items, watches, or other valuables belonged to Garibashvili. He added that the alleged offense was not related to Garibashvili’s official activities.
“I work, I was the Prime Minister, but I have a separate business that I did not register, and that is why I received punishment,” Shakulashvili quoted Garibashvili as saying.
Image: TV Pirveli
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