Vakhtang Gomelauri, the Minister of Internal Affairs, arrived in the landslide-stricken Shovi resort of Oni Municipality, Racha region.

“I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this tragic event. A huge tragedy has occurred, resulting in the loss of 24 lives, and we are actively searching for nine individuals who are currently considered missing. Our response was swift; rescue services, local police were promptly engaged. The Ministry of Defense also got involved soon following the order of the Prime Minister,” the Minister stated.

The Minister emphasized the comprehensive involvement of all relevant agencies in the ongoing search operations.

“Our teams are working tirelessly, utilizing equipment. The teams are doing everything in their power. Aviation resources were also dispatched during the initial phases. We have extensively searched around 60% of the affected landslide area. It will probably take a few more days and then rescuers will switch to local works. Additionally, a 50-kilometre stretch of the river, extending up to Ambrolauri, is being searched. Subsequently, our focus may shift to downstream areas, towards Rion,” the Minister said.