Head of the Special Investigative Service Koka Katsitadze has approved a guideline document on the use of special protection measures for the victims of ill-treatment, which entered into force on January 18, 2023.
As noted in the released statement, it is the state’s obligation to protect victims of ill-treatment and ensure their safety in the presence of threat, so increasing the victims’ trust towards the investigative body. The victim must have all kinds of guarantees that in case of cooperation with the investigative body and revealing an abusive person, they will not be in danger and will be protected by the state.
Based on the guideline document elaborated by the Service, in all criminal cases, the investigator of the Special Investigation Service will propose the potential victim be included in a special protection program by mandatory engagement. In case of consent, the Service will assess risks due to a predefined criterion. If the investigation establishes that there are grounds for the use of a special protection measure, it will refer to the relevant agencies for the victim’s immediate involvement in a special protection program.
A special protection program ensures the appointing of a security guard for the victim, an alarm call, temporary change of residence, or use of other security measures for the victim.
