At a press briefing, the Batumelebi online media outlet reported on the detention of its videographer Giorgi Murvanidze, claiming police deleted all files and personal data from his mobile phone.

Murvanidze stated he had recorded a conversation with the Batumi police chief containing threats and details of his detention. However, all files and personal data had been erased when his phone was returned.

Tamara Tsulukidze, head of GYLA’s Adjara office, announced they have already addressed the Special Investigative Service, General Inspection, and Prosecutor’s Office. She emphasized that unauthorized access to personal data and interference with journalistic activities constitute a criminal offence.

“Guram’s items were sealed upon detention. On January 21, when he was released, his personal items were returned in a sealed state, and he signed the corresponding act. However, no files or personal data remained in the blocked phone,” Tsulukidze stated.

Batumelebi asserts that Murvanidze’s detention is a continuation of the imprisonment of their founder, Mzia Amaglobeli, and reflects the ongoing governmental pressure faced by the media outlet.