Journalist Mzia Amaglobeli Alleges Mistreatment by Police Official
By Liza Mchedlidze
Thursday, January 16, 2025
Mzia Amaglobeli, the detained founder of Batumelebi and Netgazeti, has accused Irakli Dgebuadze, head of the Batumi Division of the Adjara Police Department, of abusive behavior during her arrest and detention.
According to Nona Kurdovanidze, chairman of the Georgian Young Lawyers Association (GYLA), Amaglobeli claims that Dgebuadze spat in her face and attempted to assault her multiple times at the police station. Kurdovanidze conveyed these allegations at a press conference following her visit to Amaglobeli at the Rustavi #5 detention facility.
"Mzia Amaglobeli provided detailed information to the Special Investigation Service about the mistreatment she endured in the courtyard of the police station and inside the station building," said Kurdovanidze.
Following her arrest, Amaglobeli alleges that Dgebuadze verbally assaulted her and attempted to physically assault her several times at the police station. Other officers intervened and restrained Dgebuadze, removing him from the room. However, Dgebuadze reportedly re-entered the room multiple times, continuing his aggressive behavior. On one occasion, he allegedly spat in her face.
Amaglobeli also claims that, under Dgebuadze's orders, she was denied access to water and the toilet for a prolonged period.
Kurdovanidze emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, calling for the immediate suspension of Dgebuadze's authority. She urged the Special Investigation Service to thoroughly investigate the claims of mistreatment and to apply the appropriate legal qualifications to the case.
