Prepared by Messenger Staff
Kobakhidze Defends Raids on Opposition Offices
Irakli Kobakhidze has defended the recent police raids on opposition party offices, describing the actions as "preventions" rather than repressions. Speaking to journalists on December 4, Kobakhidze accused opposition parties of systematically supplying protest participants with pyrotechnics and other materials, contributing to what he described as "systemic gross violence."
Kobakhidze claimed that the raids by the Ministry of Internal Affairs uncovered evidence of these supplies within the party offices. According to Kobakhidze, such actions demonstrate that opposition parties are using their resources to incite unrest.
"The fact is, one thing is confirmed: people were systematically supplied with pyrotechnics and other means by the relevant political forces. This is absolutely clear, and it lies in the palm of your hand," he said.
He further accused these parties of attempting to "change the government through violence."
Kobakhidze also targeted the online activist group Daitove, which has been active in mobilizing support for the protests. He characterized the group's leadership as politically motivated, claiming that its administrator has ties to the opposition party United National Movement (UNM) and former president Mikheil Saakashvili.
Georgian Authorities Arrest Seven in Investigation of Protest Violence
The Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs announced on December 4 the arrest of seven individuals as part of an investigation into group violence and public incitement to violence. The operation, based on a judge's ruling, involved searches in Tbilisi and various regions of the country.
According to the Ministry, the investigation is being conducted under Articles 225 and 239 of Georgia's Criminal Code. These articles pertain to organizing or participating in group violence and inciting public violence, with penalties of up to nine years of imprisonment.
Law enforcement officials stated that searches were conducted in the personal residences and houses of six individuals as part of the operation.
