Police Officer Shot During Raids on 'Thieves-in-Law' in Georgia
Georgian authorities arrested 34 individuals suspected of involvement with the criminal underworld during coordinated raids in Tbilisi, Kakheti, and Mtskheta-Mtianeti.
Details of the Operation
The simultaneous arrests were carried out by officers from the Central Criminal Police, regional departments, and Special Tasks units. Alongside those arrested, seven others have been charged, including two prisoners, four individuals located abroad, and one notable 'thief-in-law'.
Incident During Arrest Attempt
During a detention attempt in the village of Kabali, Lagodekhi Municipality, the authorities targeted 52-year-old Mirza Aliyev. According to the Interior Ministry, Aliyev opened fire on the officers, seriously wounding one in the chest. Aliyev was killed at the scene.
"During an attempt to detain 52-year-old Mirza Aliyev... an officer was seriously wounded in the chest after Aliyev opened fire on officers. Aliyev was eliminated on the spot."
Background on Mirza Aliyev
Opposition United National Movement (UNM) member Goga Arabuli identified Aliyev as a former Georgian Dream local politician in Kabali. A 2013 RFE/RL article references a Mirza Aliyev as a member of the Lagodekhi municipal council.
Legal Consequences
The crimes these suspects face can carry sentences of up to 15 years imprisonment.
Additional Information
- Raids were conducted simultaneously across multiple Georgian regions.
- Seven other individuals charged include persons currently abroad and prisoners.
Author’s summary: Coordinated Georgian police raids led to 34 arrests of alleged criminals, with a former local politician fatally shot after shooting at officers during detention efforts.