Georgia’s Security Chief: explosive RDX transported from Ukraine, investigation pursues two versions

Mamuka Mdinaradze, the Head of Georgia’s State Security Service, on Wednesday said RDX, a powerful explosive, was transported from Ukraine through several countries, further pointing out that investigators were currently examining two possible scenarios.

“One version, which at this stage appears more credible, is that the explosive was meant to remain in Georgia. However, there is also another version suggesting it was destined for Russia. This is supported by the testimony of the driver, though his account cannot be taken as definitive”, Mdinaradze said in an interview with Imedi TV.

He further emphasised that, regardless of its final destination, Georgian authorities had managed to avert a major security threat.

“I cannot disclose all the details today. But what I can say publicly, I will. First of all, I would like to thank the employees of our service. When I assumed my position, I found a team of highly professional individuals who know their work exceptionally well. It is thanks to them, and to the employees of other agencies, that such a powerful explosive was detected. Had it remained in Georgia and been used, the consequences would have been extremely serious. For this, our staff deserves recognition”, he continued.

Mdinaradze added that whether the explosive was intended to stay in Georgia or transit through to another country, the risks were extremely high.

“In either case, the danger was very real. If it had stayed in Georgia and been linked to certain developments we often hear about - even in some criminal public calls - the results would have been disastrous. On the other hand, even if Georgia had only served as a transit corridor for this material, that too would have placed our country under significant risk. What matters is that we successfully prevented this threat”, he concluded.

Georgia’s State Security Service on September 11 detained two Ukrainian citizens for attempting to smuggle 2.4 kilograms of a powerful explosive substance, hexogen, into the country.

According to the investigation, the explosives were handed over to the driver of a truck on Ukrainian territory by Ukraine’s security services.

The investigation is examining whether there are links between this case, the upcoming October 4 elections in Georgia, and plans announced by radical groups.