State Security Service arrests members of major foreign criminal network trafficking arms into Georgia

Officers of the State Security Department under the State Security Service of Georgia (SSSG) have arrested three foreign nationals for the unlawful distribution of firearms and ammunition, according to a statement released by the SSSG.

The investigation established that the detainees are members of an extensive foreign-based criminal network who were illegally smuggling firearms and ammunition into Georgia for sale. State Security Department officers apprehended them in Tbilisi at the scene of the crime.

“Following searches of the suspects’ persons, vehicles, and temporary residences, illegal firearms prepared for sale, ammunition, suspected narcotics, and electronic devices were seized as evidence. Initial inspections of these devices revealed photo and video material documenting various criminal activities, including the distribution of large quantities of narcotics. The seized evidence has been submitted for forensic examination.

The State Security Service is continuing its investigation to identify, expose, and prosecute other individuals involved in this international criminal network.

The investigation is currently being conducted under Article 236, Part 5 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which carries a penalty of up to nine years’ imprisonment,” the SSSG statement read.