“The Kutaisi Court of Appeal has ruled the defence’s complaint inadmissible, effectively dismissing any possibility of reconsidering the preventive measure,” Jaba Katamadze, Batumelebi and Netgazeti media outlets founder Mzia Amaglobeli’s lawyer has said.

Katamadze described the court’s decision as “grossly irregular” and unjust.

“The court’s ruling will be further scrutinized once we receive the written decision with a justifying explanation. However, we remain committed to vigorously defending Mzia Amaglobeli’s rights, both domestically and internationally. We will promptly initiate proceedings at the European Court of Human Rights, as her rights have been grossly violated by the formal and substantive grounds for imprisonment. Moreover, the next court hearing is scheduled for March 4, where we will present compelling arguments to challenge the preventive measure and advocate for Amaglobeli’s release, as there is an evident lack of a lawful basis for her detention,” he stated.

On January 14, the Batumi City Court ordered Mzia Amaglobeli’s imprisonment as a preventive measure following her arrest on January 12 under Article 353 of the Criminal Code, which specifically deals with assault on a police officer.