**Tbilisi Journalist Remains in Custody**
Nikusha Katsia, a journalist accused of a drug-related crime, is still behind bars. The Tbilisi City Court made this decision after a hearing where the court reviewed Katsia’s pre-trial detention.
The prosecution asked the court to keep Katsia in custody as a preventive measure. Prosecutor Nugzar Chitadze said that there was no new information that would change this measure. He pointed out that Katsia could still commit another crime or try to flee, which is against his freedom of movement. The defense lawyer, Nina Lominadze, argued that these risks were not present and that Katsia should be released.
However, the judge, Tamar Mchedlishvili, agreed with the prosecution and decided to keep Katsia in custody. This means that he will remain locked up until his trial takes place.
**The Charges Against Nikusha Katsia**
Nikusha Katsia is accused of possessing a large quantity of cocaine, specifically 14 grams. He denies this charge and claims that it is linked to his involvement in recent protest rallies. If convicted, he could face between 8 to 20 years in prison, or even life imprisonment.
**Background**
Katsia was arrested on December 7 and has been in custody ever since. This decision by the Tbilisi City Court will likely spark controversy among activists and journalists who see Katsia’s arrest as an attempt to silence him for his involvement in protest rallies.
As this case continues, many questions remain unanswered. Will Nikusha Katsia be able to clear his name? And what impact will this decision have on the ongoing protests in Tbilisi?
**The Future of Nikusha Katsia**
For now, Nikusha Katsia remains in custody, awaiting his trial. The court’s decision to keep him locked up will likely draw further attention to the case and spark debate among those who care about press freedom and human rights.
Read More @ www.interpressnews.ge
