SJC: Arrest of TV Pirveli Cameraman Part of Broader Trend of Arbitrary Detentions by Georgian Dream
By Liza Mchedlidze
Thursday, February 20, 2025
The Social Justice Center (SJC) has strongly condemned the arrest of TV Pirveli cameraman Lasha Jioshvili, describing it as part of a broader trend of arbitrary detentions used by the Georgian Dream government to suppress peaceful protests.
Jioshvili was forcibly detained by masked individuals after a protest on Rustaveli Avenue on February 18. He was later charged with disobeying the police under Article 173 of the Administrative Code. Footage of the incident shows that the officers did not identify themselves or explain the reason for his detention, raising concerns over the legality of the action.
"The detainee was not given the opportunity to contact his lawyer before being taken to the department. Law enforcement officers threatened him and used disproportionate physical force against him, leaving him with bruises," the SJC stated.
Jioshvili was reportedly holding a banner referencing a protest performance on Bidzina Ivanishvili's birthday, and the SJC believes that this may have been the catalyst for his arrest. A video recording captured Jioshvili saying, "They're putting something in my pocket," suggesting that law enforcement may have attempted to plant evidence.
The SJC also criticized the use of unidentifiable law enforcement officers, stating, "It is particularly problematic that none of the detaining persons could be visually identified as law enforcement officers." They argue that such tactics are designed to intimidate protesters rather than ensure public safety.
In their statement, the SJC called for Jioshvili's immediate release and for an investigation into the use of excessive force during his arrest. "We call on the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Special Investigation Service to respond to the allegations and ensure justice," the organization said.
