Tbilisi City Court has remanded journalist Nikusha Katsia, who is accused of a drug-related offense, in custody

Journalist Nikusha Katsia, who is accused of a drug-related crime, remains in custody.

This decision was made by Tbilisi City Court Judge Tamar Mchedlishvili.

At today’s hearing, the court reviewed the pre-trial detention imposed on the detained journalist and decided to uphold it.

The prosecution continued to request the use of detention as a preventive measure. As prosecutor Nugzar Chitadze explained, no new circumstances had emerged to justify changing the measure. He cited the risks of the accused committing a new offense or fleeing.

Defense lawyer Nina Lominadze opposed the motion. She argued that there was no risk of Katsia fleeing or committing a new crime.

Judge Tamar Mchedlishvili sided with the prosecution and left Nikusha Katsia in custody.

For reference, Katsia is charged under Article 260, Part 6 of the Criminal Code, which involves the illegal purchase and possession of a large quantity of narcotic substances.

More specifically, he is accused of possessing 14 grams of cocaine. Katsia denies the charge and links his arrest to his active participation in the ongoing protest rallies.

The offense is punishable by 8 to 20 years, or even life imprisonment.

Nikusha Katsia was arrested on December 7.