The article discusses the Social Justice Center’s (SJC) request for prosecutors to reclassify a criminal case related to police brutality during November-December 2024 protests and to conduct additional investigations. The SJC is seeking charges of torture, degrading and inhuman treatment, and robbery, rather than just abuse of power. They also want a systemic review of the protest dispersals, including analyzing operational plans, identifying participating officers, and questioning senior Interior Ministry officials.
The article highlights that despite numerous documented abuses during the protests, no police officer has been held accountable. Dozens of protesters are still in jail on protest-related criminal charges, with 11 already sentenced to prison terms. The SJC’s request comes as a response to these issues and aims to bring justice to victims of police brutality.
The article also mentions that the SJC previously demanded prosecutors retrieve video footage from detainee transport vehicles, as witnesses reported physical violence against detainees during transportation. Additionally, the SJC wants investigators to question former Special Tasks officer Irakli Shaishmelashvili, who they believe possesses important information about decision-making during dispersals and the role of senior officials in the violence.
Overall, the article emphasizes the need for accountability and justice in the face of police brutality and highlights the efforts of the Social Justice Center to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
