Batumi City Court reviews journalist Mzia Amaglobeli's case amid public protest
Batumi City Court reviews journalist Mzia Amaglobeli's case amid public protest

The Batumi City Court is currently examining the case of journalist Mzia Amaglobeli, founder of the Batumelebi and Natgazeti media outlets.

Supporters of Amaglobeli have gathered in protest outside the court building, voicing their unwavering solidarity. Among those present is Afgan Sadygov, assistant to the French Ambassador and an Azerbaijani journalist released from prison on April 17, who is attending the proceedings.

Today’s trial will feature the interrogation of Batumelebi journalists and a witness called by the defence.

“I hope to witness genuine court hearings in every trial, not mere imitations,” stated Nana Kvachadze, editor of Batumelebi.

The judge has heard testimonies from the prosecutor’s witnesses as well as Irakli Dgebuadze, the Chief of Batumi Police.

Amaglobeli was detained under Article 173 on charges of insulting police officers. The incident dates back to January 11, when she was initially held for one hour on administrative charges. Following her release, she was re-arrested on criminal charges, accused of slapping Batumi Police Chief Irakli Dgebuadze.