**Demonstrators in Georgia Report Ill-Treatment by Police**
A disturbing trend has emerged in Georgia, where 10 protesters who were detained under criminal law during recent demonstrations have come forward with allegations of ill-treatment while in police custody. The Georgian Young Lawyers Association (GYLA) has been monitoring these cases and reports that the individuals were subjected to physical and psychological abuse.
According to GYLA, the detainees reported incidents of mistreatment during their detention, transportation, or in the police department itself. The affected individuals include Saba Skhvitaridze, Revaz Kiknadze, Nikoloz Katsia, Anatoli Gigauri, Davit Khomeriki, Davit Lomidze, Temur Zasokashvili, Archil Museliantsi, Anastasia Zinovkina, and Mzia Amaglobeli. These allegations are particularly concerning, given the severity of the incidents described.
One of the most disturbing cases reported by GYLA is that of Saba Skhvitaridze, who was detained on Zestaponi road without being informed of the reasons for his detention or given access to a lawyer. He was then handed over to an unknown operational group and taken to the police department in Digomi, where he was physically assaulted and beaten by masked men. On the eighth floor of the same building, Skhvitaridze was abused again by a person wearing a patrol uniform and mask.
**Systemic Problem or Isolated Incidents?**
The reports from GYLA suggest that ill-treatment of detainees is not an isolated problem but rather a systemic issue within the Georgian police force. Revaz Kiknadze, another detainee, reported being forced to confess to a crime under psychological pressure and verbal abuse. This experience, along with others, reinforces the notion that ill-treatment is widespread.
As GYLA points out, these incidents are not only violations of human rights but also crimes punishable by the Constitution of Georgia and international law. The fact that 10 protesters have come forward with similar allegations raises serious concerns about the culture within the police force and the need for greater accountability.
**What’s Next?**
The Georgian authorities must take these allegations seriously and conduct thorough investigations into each case. Those responsible for ill-treatment should be held accountable, and measures should be taken to prevent such incidents in the future. The public has a right to know that their rights will be protected during protests and other demonstrations.
GYLA’s monitoring of these cases highlights the importance of independent oversight mechanisms to ensure that the rule of law is upheld. The international community should also take note of this situation, as it raises concerns about Georgia’s commitment to upholding human rights standards.
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