The State Security Service employee at the trial of 11 people detained during protests said: I didn't know the defendants and I cannot confirm or deny that I was hurt by the pyrotechnics used. I couldn't see anyone because it was dark.

**Trial of Protest Detainees: A Key Witness Speaks Out**

In a recent trial at Tbilisi City Court, 11 individuals accused of participating in group violence during protests near the parliament are facing charges. The detainees include actor Andro Chichinadze, humorist Onise Tskhadadze, and nine others.

During questioning, Nugzar Mirianashvili, an employee of the State Security Service, was called to testify. However, his testimony raised more questions than answers. When asked if he knew the defendants or had any claims against them, Mirianashvili replied, “I don’t know the defendants, I have no claims against any of them, and I can neither confirm nor deny that I was injured by the pyrotechnics they allegedly used.”

Mirianashvili claimed that while performing his duties on Rustaveli Avenue, it was dark and difficult to see who caused his injury. He stated that there were lasers flashing, protesters shining lights in their faces, and gas masks worn, which limited the field of vision.

This testimony is significant, as Mirianashvili’s account seems to contradict the claims made against the detainees. If Mirianashvili was indeed injured by the pyrotechnics, it would mean that he has a personal stake in the case. However, his lack of knowledge about the defendants and his inability to confirm or deny the injury suggests otherwise.

The cases of the 11 detainees have been combined into a single proceeding under Part 2 of Article 225 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which pertains to participation in group violence. This offense carries a penalty of imprisonment ranging from 4 to 6 years.

As the trial continues, it remains to be seen how this key witness’s testimony will impact the outcome. Will the court take Mirianashvili’s words as credible, or will they view his lack of knowledge about the defendants and his injury as suspicious? The verdict is still pending, but one thing is certain – this case has raised questions about the use of force during protests and the accountability of those involved.