Nationwide Crackdown on Georgia’s Criminal Underworld
The Ministry of Internal Affairs conducted a major operation targeting Georgia’s criminal networks, resulting in 34 arrests and seven charges in absentia across five separate cases.
Charges and Accusations
Those detained are accused of involvement in organized crime activities, such as mediating financial disputes, collaborating with “thieves in law” overseas, and enforcing orders through intimidation and violence.
The Ministry reported the discovery of “thieves’ meetings” where fines were imposed and death threats issued to uphold decisions.
Violent Incident During Operation
In the village of Kabali, Lagodekhi district, 51-year-old Mirza Aliyev, wanted under a court warrant, opened fire on Special Tasks Department officers, critically wounding one. Police returned fire, fatally shooting Aliyev on site.
Joint Law Enforcement Effort
The operation involved units from the Central Criminal Police Department and regional branches in Tbilisi, Kakheti, and Mtskheta-Mtianeti. Searches of suspects’ homes and vehicles yielded firearms, ammunition, narcotics, electronic devices, and large sums of cash.
Seized Items Included:
- Firearms and ammunition
- Narcotics
- Electronic devices
- Significant amounts of cash
This extensive crackdown reflects intensified efforts to dismantle organized crime in Georgia and enforce the rule of law nationwide.