The State Security Service of Georgia (SSG) has arrested two individuals, Irakli Chikhladze and Gulbaat Rtskhiladze, on charges of espionage.
The SSG says the investigation concerns the collection and transfer of intelligence information to foreign special services. It also alleges that the detainees had been operating for years using “conspiratorial methods,” encrypted communication, and systematic contact with foreign representatives.
Both cases are being investigated under Article 314 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which carries a prison sentence of 8 to 12 years.
Both Chikhladze and Rtskhiladze deny the charges. Their lawyers say the evidence presented does not confirm espionage and that the two cases are unrelated, except for being investigated under the same article.
Rtskhiladze was formally charged on May 31. His lawyer said he cannot confirm at this stage that the allegations relate to Russia, although he does not rule out that direction. He also said his client links his arrest to the creation of a “Russophobia Monitoring Council” and his public activity.
The lawyer added that Rtskhiladze denies the allegations and says his work was aimed at normalizing Georgia–Russia relations.
Chikhladze’s lawyer Giorgi Gelkhauri said the case materials do not show any grounds for the charges or any actions against Georgia’s state interests.
He also said the case lacks any evidence linking Chikhladze to espionage activities, adding that proceedings may be closed to the public, limiting transparency.
Gelkhauri said Chikhladze’s case has no connection to Rtskhiladze’s case, describing them as “two independent, autonomous cases” linked only by the legal article under which they are charged.
He added that he is bound by a confidentiality agreement and cannot disclose which country Chikhladze is allegedly accused of spying for.
