Georgian Police Operation Targets Criminal Underworld
A large-scale police operation in eastern Georgia ended in an armed clash, leaving one crime boss dead and a special forces officer seriously injured, according to the Interior Ministry of Georgia.
Shootout in Kabali Village
During the raid in the village of Kabali, Lagodekhi municipality, 52-year-old Mirza Aliyev opened fire on officers, hitting one in the chest. The special forces responded with lethal force, resulting in Aliyev’s death.
Dozens Detained in Coordinated Raid
Authorities arrested 34 individuals for suspected associations with the criminal underworld. Seven more suspects, including a “thief-in-law” and two convicts, were charged in absentia for mediating illegal deals and organising criminal “settlements.” These charges could result in prison sentences of up to 15 years.
Evidence and Items Seized
The Interior Ministry reported that searches revealed firearms, narcotics, large amounts of cash, and electronic devices allegedly used for communications with criminal networks abroad.
Key Organizers and Collaborators
One of the main suspects, Elmuraz Mamedov, reportedly played a significant role in arranging so-called “thieves’ meetings,” where participants imposed fines and issued threats.
Within the same operation, police detained Davit Chubinidze, the security chief of Davit Mikadze. Mikadze was charged in absentia for illegal possession and use of firearms.
“The operation is part of an ongoing effort to dismantle criminal influence and suppress organized crime in Georgia,” the Interior Ministry stated.
Author’s Summary
Georgian police broke up an organized crime ring in a major operation, leaving a gang leader dead, dozens detained, and key figures charged for orchestrating criminal networks.