The Georgian Public Defender’s Office released a statement regarding the alleged abuse of power by police officers in Gori.

According to the statement, the Public Defender condemns any cases of ill-treatment on the part of police officers.

“The Public Defender of Georgia responds to the disturbing footage released by public sources depicting violence against citizens by law enforcement officers in Gori and condemns any act of law violation, especially cases of ill-treatment.

According to the Georgian Prosecutor’s Office, it has opened a criminal investigation into the alleged violent abuse of power by police officers in Gori, under subparagraph ‘b’ of the third part of Article 333 of the Criminal Code.

The Public Defender calls on the Prosecutor’s Office to ensure an objective and effective investigation and hold those responsible. Within its mandate, the Public Defender will monitor the ongoing investigation,” reads the statement.

The Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation into the alleged abuse of power by police officers in Gori.

Earlier today, video footage was circulated showing officers of the Shida Kartli Police physically assaulting two individuals during an arrest in the so-called Kombinati district of Gori. Information has also emerged that one of those detained had a bladed weapon.