16 members of radical fascist group detained in Georgia

Law enforcement officers on Friday arrested 16 members of a radical fascist group who identified themselves as neo-fascists.

Speaking at the briefing, Tbilisi Police Department Director Vazha Siradze stated that the suspects committed acts of extreme violence against people of various ages.

“Today, officers from the Tbilisi Police Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs arrested 16 members of radical fascist groups across the country. These individuals physically and psychologically abused victims of different ages with exceptional cruelty. Among those arrested, 10 are minors”, Siradze said.

“Following months-long investigation, law enforcement established that members of the violent groups identified themselves as neo-Nazis and were guided by fascist ideology. In an effort to expand their influence and gain notoriety, they demonstrated radical attitudes toward their victims and violently assaulted those who did not share their ideology, using exceptional brutality”, he continued.

Siradze further added that members of the groups had recorded photo and video material depicting violence against victims, degrading acts, and physical and psychological pressure using mobile phones, and had published the content on various internet platforms.

“As a result of these violent acts, more than ten individuals were injured, including four minors”, he noted.

Siradze pointed out that searches of the suspects’ personal belongings and residences had resulted in the seizure of mobile phones, masks, various electronic devices, items bearing Nazi symbols, as well as blunt and cold weapons.

Siradze also reminded the public that two leaders of radical fascist groups, Levan Abesadze and Davit Japarov, are already serving sentences for similar charges following their arrest several months ago. Alongside them, seven other group members were previously detained. The investigation has confirmed that other members of these ideological groups continued committing violent acts, based on evidence obtained during the ongoing inquiry.

“Investigative actions are continuing intensively to identify others connected to these violent groups and hold them accountable. We call on every member of society to report any signs of such crimes immediately to prevent the abuse of minors and the spread of this ideology among young people”, he concluded.