City Court discussed so-called case of ‘deal matches’

20:21, 23.12.2017

Five persons detained on charge of commercial bribery into so-called ‘deal matches” have been officially indicted today. The Tbilisi City Court discussed the case and imposed bail to referees Irakli and Davit Bereshvilis. Referee Zaza Machalidze, Coach of Basketball Club Sokhumi and co-founder of the same club Temur Datikashvili were imposed pre-trial detention.

Three of the defendants do not admit to have committed the crime, while 2 detainees have pleaded guilty.

The State Security Service detained basketball coaches and referees on charges of bribery. Overall, 5 persons were arrested. According to the lawyer of detained referees Irakli and Davit Berdzenishvilis, the detainees have pleaded guilty and cooperate with the investigation, while the lawyer of detained coach Vazha Kvaratskhelia and co-owner of the basketball club Sokhumi, Temur Datiqashvili, says her clients deny charges.

According to the State Security Service, the referees and coaches received 36000 GEL in exchange for fixing games. The detainees face 4-6 years in jail if convicted.

Justice/Crime

commercial bribery

deal matches

Tbilisi City Court