As a result of operational and investigative activities carried out by the Special Investigation Service, on the basis of evidence obtained, 2 persons were arrested for the fact of persecution and violence against a journalist and a cameraman of the Main Channel.

According to the Special Investigation Service, the crime is punishable by up to three years of imprisonment.

"The investigation established that on July 25, 2024, in the morning hours, Main Channel journalist Vladimer Menabde and cameraman Manuchar Khavanadze were carrying out journalistic activities in the village of Supsa, Lanchkhuti municipality, during which, the accused V.I. abused them verbally and physically. At the same time, the journalist was physically assaulted by V.I.'s brother, A.I., who punched him several times in the head and face area, as a result of which Vladimir Menabde suffered physical pain and received an injury in the lip area. A.I. also damaged the video camera of the Main Channel TV company and verbally insulted the journalist and cameraman.

The employees of the Special Investigation Service, on July 26, 2024, arrested citizens living in the village of Supsa, V.I. and A.I., for the crime provided for the Criminal Code, which pertains to the persecution of a person in connection with his professional activity.

"The crime is punishable by up to three years of imprisonment," reads the statement.