Nationwide Crackdown on Georgia’s Criminal Underworld
The Ministry of Internal Affairs has launched a comprehensive operation targeting Georgia’s criminal underworld, resulting in the arrest of 34 individuals and charges filed in absentia against seven others across five distinct criminal investigations.
Accusations and Charges
Those detained are accused of involvement in organized crime networks, including handling financial disputes, coordinating with foreign 'thieves in law,' and enforcing decisions through intimidation and violence. Evidence discovered during the investigation revealed “thieves’ meetings” where participants imposed fines and issued death threats to uphold their rulings.
Incident in Kabali Village
During the operation in Kabali village, Lagodekhi district, Mirza Aliyev, 51, who was wanted under a court warrant, opened fire on officers from the Special Tasks Department, critically wounding one officer. Police returned fire, killing Aliyev on the spot.
Operation Details
- The operation was carried out by the Central Criminal Police Department alongside regional units in Tbilisi, Kakheti, and Mtskheta-Mtianeti.
- Searches of suspects’ residences and vehicles yielded firearms, ammunition, narcotics, electronic devices, and large sums of cash.
“Participants in these meetings imposed fines and issued death threats to enforce their decisions.”
These coordinated efforts mark a significant step in disrupting organized crime activities across Georgia.
Summary: A large-scale police operation in Georgia arrested 34 suspects linked to organized crime, highlighting ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks through nationwide coordinated actions.