The Ministry of Justice of Georgia has issued a statement in response to the information released by the State Security Service of Georgia (SSSG) concerning the detention of Giorgi Kemoklidze, the former Deputy Director of the Penitentiary Department.

According to the statement, the General Inspectorate of the Ministry of Justice has been investigating the incident that took place on July 11, 2025, at Penitentiary Institution No. 8, involving K. Metreveli and G. Bachiashvili. At a certain stage of the investigation, and in accordance with legal provisions, the criminal case was transferred to the Anti-Corruption Agency of the State Security Service for further examination.

“The information disclosed by the Anti-Corruption Agency yesterday aligns with the account outlined in the statement issued by the Special Penitentiary Service on August 21, 2025, regarding the incident in G. Bachiashvili’s cell,” the Ministry’s statement reads.

It also notes that during the ongoing investigation, one of the former heads of the Special Penitentiary Service was implicated in criminal activities. The alleged misconduct has tarnished the reputation of the Service and undermined the efforts of numerous dedicated employees who work tirelessly around the clock to uphold the institution’s integrity.

The Ministry of Justice and the Special Penitentiary Service emphasise their continued cooperation with the investigation, committed to ensuring accountability and transparency.