Defense attorney Lali Aptsiauri says she was unable to speak with Aleksi Akhvlediani during a brief visit to the Zahesi temporary detention facility, citing the detainee’s severe psychological distress.

According to Aptsiauri, Akhvlediani is experiencing “extreme stress” and was unable to provide any information regarding his case during their short meeting.

“No charges have been formally presented yet. I had a brief visit but couldn’t communicate with him – he’s under such severe stress,”  Aptsiauri stated.

Akhvlediani, head of the Maritime Transport Agency, has been detained as a suspect in connection with the Tornike Rizhvadze case. Akhvlediani was arrested under Article 238 of Georgia’s Criminal Code, which pertains to illegal possession of firearms.

Former Adjara Government Chairman Tornike Rizhvadze was admitted to Sagarejo’s “Geo Hospital” today with a gunshot wound and was subsequently transferred to the First University Clinic. The investigation into Rizhvadze’s case has been launched under Article 115 of Georgia’s Criminal Code, which addresses the act of inciting or inducing suicide, or attempted suicide.