**Man Dies After Being Hospitalized from Police Custody, Amid Allegations of Police Brutality**
A 37-year-old man, Alan Kakitashvili, died in a hospital in Tbilisi after being hospitalized from police custody. The incident has sparked allegations that the fatal outcome was caused by a beating at the police station. The Special Investigative Service has launched an investigation into the matter.
According to reports, Kakitashvili was taken into police custody on June 6 after a late-night brawl near a restaurant in Tbilisi. His colleague, Irakli Tatunashvili, who was also involved in the brawl and detained together with Kakitashvili, testified that he heard his friend scream “desperately” while being held separately at the police station. Emergency services arrived 20 minutes after the scream stopped.
Tatunashvili claimed that both he and Kakitashvili were brutally treated by several police officers at the police station, allegedly to force a confession from them. He described the treatment as “extremely severe” and stated that Kakitashvili did not sustain any significant injuries during the fight.
**CCTV Footage Raises Questions**
Journalists from TV Pirveli conducted an investigation into the incident, showing CCTV footage from the brawl. The footage appears to show Kakitashvili being hit several times during the altercation, but also shows that he was able to leave the scene independently with Tatunashvili. This contradicts police claims that Kakitashvili sustained significant injuries during the fight.
**Investigation Launched, Officials Deny Allegations**
The Special Investigative Service has launched a criminal investigation into alleged abuse of power involving violence or the use of a weapon. However, officials have denied any allegations of police brutality. Deputy Interior Minister Aleksandre Darakhvelidze stated that Kakitashvili “turned unwell” and “lost consciousness” while in custody, without providing reasons.
**Questionable Hospital Records**
Medical records from Tbilisi’s First University Hospital claim that Kakitashvili was under the influence of alcohol during police interrogation when he suddenly experienced nausea and lost consciousness. However, Tatunashvili’s lawyer has disputed this account, alleging that police began beating Kakitashvili immediately after taking him to the station.
**Three Detained in Connection with Brawl**
In related news, three individuals involved in the brawl have been detained and charged with violence. The incident highlights concerns about police conduct and accountability in Georgia.
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