Tbilisi Police arrest 13 members of neo-Nazi groups for violent crimes

Officers of the Tbilisi Police Department have arrested 13 individuals affiliated with various neo-Nazi groups and supporters of fascist ideology, officials announced on Monday during a briefing.

According to Vazha Siradze, the director of the Tbilisi Police Department, the detainees carried out acts of extreme physical and psychological violence against individuals of different ages. Among those arrested, seven are minors.

In connection with the same criminal case, four additional individuals currently serving sentences in penitentiary institutions will face new charges based on evidence obtained during the investigation.

Law enforcement officials revealed that, following several months of investigative work, members of the violent groups identified themselves as neo-Nazis and operated under fascist ideology. Their actions were aimed at gaining notoriety, promoting extremist beliefs, and expanding their influence.

Investigators say the suspects targeted victims with radical hostility, subjecting them to severe abuse using blunt and sharp objects, including batons and knuckle-dusters. Victims were often selected for not sharing fascist views. In addition to violence, the perpetrators reportedly robbed and extorted money from their targets.

Authorities also stated that the group members recorded videos and photos of assaults, torture, and degrading treatment using mobile phones, later distributing the material on various online platforms.

Evidence suggests that rivalries and internal conflicts between different neo-Nazi groups also led to violent confrontations among their own members.

As a result of these crimes, up to ten individuals have been identified as victims, including two minors.

During searches of the defendants’ residences, law enforcement officers seized firearms, blank-firing and cold weapons, items with Nazi symbolism, mobile phones, masks, and various electronic devices.

The investigation is ongoing under multiple articles of the criminal code, including charges related to torture committed in a group setting, illegal possession of firearms, organizing violence, robbery, and extortion. The crimes carry penalties of up to 15 years in prison.

Authorities noted that several leaders of similar extremist groups are already serving sentences on related charges, alongside 24 additional members arrested in previous operations.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to combating violent groups promoting fascist ideology and urged the public to report any signs of such criminal activity to prevent further abuse, particularly against minors.