As a result of a complex police operation conducted in Tbilisi, officers of Tbilisi Police Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs [MIA] arrested 13 individuals supporting various neo-Nazi groups and fascist ideology. Vazha Siradze, Tbilisi Police Department Director, said this at today’s briefing.

“They were physically and psychologically violent towards people of different ages with particular cruelty. 7 of the detainees are under-aged persons.

In addition to the mentioned, within the framework of the ongoing investigation into the same criminal case, 4 more individuals who are in a penitentiary institution for a similar crime, will be additionally charged with organizing and participating in group violence, based on the evidence obtained.

As a result of the investigative actions carried out by law enforcement officers for several months, it was established that members of violent groups identified themselves as neo-Nazis and were guided by fascist ideology.

In order to gain recognition, popularize fascist ideology and increase the influence of representatives of the neo-Nazi network, they exercised a radical misconduct towards the victims and with exceptional cruelty, using various blunt and sharp objects, including batons and so-called brass knuckles, violently attacked the targets. They were especially cruel to those who did not share the fascist ideology.

In is also notable that, during the attacks on the victims, members of the radical group robbed them and extorted a certain amount of cash as well.

Members of the radical groups took photos and videos depicting violence, torture, degrading treatment, physical and psychological pressure against the victims on mobile phones and posted the material on various Internet platforms on purpose.

It should be outlined that, based on conflicts of interest and disagreements, members of various neo-Nazi groups also brutally attacked each other, which is confirmed by evidence obtained within the framework of the ongoing investigation. Up to ten individuals, including 2 minors, were subject to violence and other acts mentioned. During the personal search of the detainees and search activities held in residential homes - firearms, acoustic and cold weapons, Nazi symbols, mobile phones, masks and various electronic devices belonging to them were seized.

The investigation is underway under Articles 144, 225, 178, 181 and 236 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, including torture committed by a group against a minor with prior knowledge, illegal acquisition, storage and carrying of firearms, organization of violence, robbery and extortion – envisioning up to 15 years of imprisonment.

We would like to remind the public that several leaders of radical fascist groups are already serving sentences in prison on similar charges, having been arrested by law enforcement officers several months ago. Along with them, 24 more members of various neo-Nazi groups have also been detained.

The MIA continues to fight against violent groups with fascist ideology. We once again call on each member of the society to immediately report any signs of such crimes in order to prevent cruel treatment of minors and the spread of such ideology among young people. I would also like to thank each employee of Tbilisi Police Department of the MIA for the successful conduction of the mentioned police operation”, - said Vazha Siradze.