The Ministry of Internal Affairs detained eight individuals for attempting to block a strategic or special-importance facility as a group, the Ministry reported.

According to the Ministry, the crime carries a penalty of up to four years in prison.

“The investigation established that on February 2, during a rally on Agmashenebeli Alley in Tbilisi, the detainees attempted to block an international highway despite repeated warnings from law enforcement.

According to Government Resolution No. 361 (October 23, 2024), highways of international importance are classified as strategic or special-importance objects. Additionally, Resolution No. 407 (June 18, 2014) designates the Tbilisi-Senaki-Leselidze highway—encompassing Agmashenebeli Alley—as an international road.

On the day of the protest, participants gathered in the afternoon and later moved toward Tbilisi’s exit. Law enforcement was present, maintaining communication with organizers. Despite multiple warnings, some participants entered the carriageway and attempted to block the highway, disobeying police orders.

The eight detainees are charged under Article 19-222 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to attempting to block a strategic or special-importance facility as a group. The investigation continues to identify and hold other individuals involved accountable,” the MIA reported.