Georgian State Security Service launches investigation in response to information about alleged crime circulated in public domain by BBC

The Georgian State Security Service on Monday launched an investigation in response to information about an alleged crime circulated in the public domain by the BBC.

According to the official statement, the investigation aims to determine in detail the basis of the information used by the BBC, including the interviews and claims provided by the individuals featured in the report, as well as the relevance and credibility of these statements.

“As of today, the only established fact is that, on the one hand, the material published contains indications of a crime which, if confirmed, is directed against the lives and health of citizens and represents a significant violation of their lawful interests and those of society. On the other hand, it contains signs of a crime that severely harms Georgia’s national interests, its international image and reputation, and is directed against state interests”, the Service said.

The investigation has been initiated under Article 333 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which pertains to abuse of official authority, and Article 319, which concerns assisting a foreign organisation in hostile activities.

The Service stated that investigators will examine all possible directions and will periodically update the public with detailed and comprehensive information as the inquiry progresses.

The BBC on Monday published an article alleging that the Georgian Dream Government used a World War I-era chemical agent during recent protests.