Suspected Arson in Pankisi Development Building
A building housing the Kakheti Regional Development Foundation (KRDF) in the village of Duisi, in Pankisi Gorge, experienced a small fire last week. The suspected arson took place overnight on January 3rd.
The fire was noticed and quickly contained by building’s the guard and nearby villagers, and only the main door sustained any damage.
“The KRDF is one of the educational centers doing great work in improving education in the gorge. During the year, serious educational courses are offered in the center, giving youth opportunities to improve their educational skills,” Rumina Alkhanashvili reported at pankisitimes.com.
Iza Bekauri, head of KRDF, has alleged that some individuals in the area had been openly declaring their disappointment on Facebook about her and about the activities of the community center, particularly after KRDF began activism regarding domestic violence. She says that menacing phone calls have also been made, although, at least until now, they have not been frequent as to merit reporting to the police.
The community center in Duisi village brings together about 400 students. Study was set to resume after the Christmas holiday on January 9th, but due to the fire at the building that may now be postponed.
A group of locals, including Pankisi authorities, a Council of Elders, a Women’s Council, and youth gathered on January 4 to protest the presumed arson. The KRDF building is the only cultural center in the area.
by Nino Gugunishvili