Three More Persons Arrested in Connection with Velistsikhe Incident

The Interior Ministry arrested three further people in connection with the incident in Velistsikhe when several hundred opposition activists attempted to cross police cordons to access the inauguration venue in Telavi on 16 December.

One activist one apprehended in the town of Gardabani. The man is accused of assaulting a police officer, along with Davit Kirkitadze from the United National Movement, who was also arrested. The man may face up to seven years in prison.

Two further people from Gurjaani municipality were apprehended for assaulting Shota Dalakishvili, an opposition supporter, who was beaten by bystanders during the Velistsikhe protest. They have already pleaded guilty, stated the Interior Ministry. They face serving a community sentence (120 to 180 hours of community service) or a custodial sentence of up to a year.

By Amy Jones