The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia has arrested several prominent opposition figures, accusing them of inciting violent actions during the October 4 protest in Tbilisi.
Deputy Interior Minister Aleksandre Darakhvelidze announced at a briefing that members of the United National Movement (UNM) Murtaz Zodelava and Irakli Nadiradze, one of the leaders of “Rustaveli Avenue” Paata Burchuladze, Strategy Aghmashenebeli leader Paata Manjgaladze, and Colonel Lasha Beridze were taken into custody.
Darakhvelidze claimed that they are charged with “calling for the violent overthrow of Georgia’s constitutional order or government, as well as organizing, leading, and participating in group violence.” The alleged crimes are punishable by up to nine years in prison.
The Deputy Minister said that law enforcement had gathered evidence, including video materials disseminated by media outlets, which showed that during the rally at Freedom Square, organizers made violent statements and calls — some of which had been voiced prior to October 4.
Despite repeated warnings from the Interior Ministry urging protesters to keep the rally peaceful and within legal limits, some demonstrators allegedly attempted to storm the presidential residence on Atoneli Street, breaking through security barriers.
The investigation is ongoing under articles 317, 222, 225, and 187 of the Criminal Code. Authorities have promised to release further details as the case progresses.
It is noteworthy that all five detainees were members of the “October 4 Protest Organizing Committee,” which Paata Burchuladze named earlier yesterday.
