**Georgia’s Prosecutor’s Office Cracks Down on “Criminal Underworld”**
In a major crackdown, the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia has charged 11 individuals with various crimes related to the country’s notorious “criminal underworld.” According to a statement released by the Prosecutor’s Press Service, those accused face charges ranging from “thievery under the code” to membership in and support for the “criminal underworld.”
**Background on Georgia’s “Criminal Underworld”**
Georgia has long struggled with organized crime, particularly in the Caucasus region. The “thief-in-law” system is a unique aspect of this phenomenon, where individuals within the underworld are given titles like “thief-in-law” and enjoy a certain level of respect and power. However, these groups often engage in extortion, bribery, and other forms of exploitation.
**Investigation Reveals Large-Scale Scheme**
An investigation conducted by the Ministry of Internal Affairs uncovered a sophisticated scheme where disputing parties sought to resolve financial disputes through “criminal underworld rulings.” Members of the underworld, working with a so-called “thief-in-law,” would organize these arbitrations and demand payment from one party. This complex network even involved individuals residing abroad instructing others in the country.
**Charges and Penalties**
The accused face significant penalties. Two individuals were charged in absentia under Article 223¹ of the Criminal Code, carrying a penalty of up to 15 years in prison. Three individuals were charged under Article 223¹ for membership in the “criminal underworld,” punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Another two individuals, one in absentia, were charged under Article 223³ for supporting the activities of the underworld, which carries a sentence of up to 6 years in prison. Lastly, four individuals were charged under Article 224 for addressing members of the underworld or a so-called “thief-in-law,” carrying a penalty of up to 7 years.
**Pre-Trial Detention and Ongoing Investigation**
Based on a motion from the Prosecutor’s Office, the court has already imposed pre-trial detention on the accused. The investigation is ongoing, indicating that authorities are taking a thorough approach to dismantle the complex network involved in these crimes.
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