**Georgian Authorities Raid Homes of Protest Supporters**
In the early hours of April 29, police officers from the Georgian Prosecutor’s Office, accompanied by representatives from the State Security Service, searched the homes of several public fund managers who have been supporting the ongoing protests in the country. The raids, which were reportedly carried out with a court order, targeted the homes of key figures, including journalist and media personality Nanuka Zhorzholiani.
**Targeted Searches**
Zhorzholiani was the first to report on social media that officers had arrived at her home at 8:40 a.m., accompanied by what she described as “representatives” from the State Security Service. The search of her apartment, which also included her daughter Mariam Geguchadze’s space, began in the presence of minors. Zhorzholiani and activist Mariam Bajelidze were not allowed to record the searches.
**Court Order and Restrictions**
The officers reportedly had a court order to conduct the searches, but what this means in practice is unclear at this time. Both Zhorzholiani and Bajelidze have stated that they were not granted permission to record the searches, which raises concerns about transparency and accountability.
**Protest Response**
As news of the raids spread, journalists, opposition politicians, and activists mobilized near Nanuka Zhorzholiani’s house, where police were seen blocking entrances to the residential block. The scene has become increasingly tense as more people gather to show solidarity with those targeted by the authorities.
**Context and Analysis**
The raids are believed to be related to a criminal investigation launched in March against five public funds that have been supporting the protests. Prosecutors accused these funds of promoting civil unrest, illegal activities, and financing actions against Georgia’s constitutional order. The move is seen as an escalation of pressure on those who continue to support the ongoing demonstrations.
The fact that the searches were carried out with a court order but without allowing the targeted individuals to record the process raises serious questions about the transparency and impartiality of the investigation. As tensions rise, it remains unclear how this development will impact the protests or the overall situation in Georgia.
**Update**
As I write this, Mariam Bajelidze has reported that her search was completed in the afternoon. She stated that officers took cell phones and laptops from family members without granting her request for a lawyer to be present during the search.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story…
