Zurab Chkhaidze has released a statement

I decided to speak out about the current situation solely to ensure that the truth is not lost amid the absurd accusations and unfounded speculations I’ve been hearing from certain journalists over the past few days.

A few days ago, my son was indeed detained for unlawfully transporting a firearm — which was officially registered and legally owned — from one residence to another, specifically to a summer house. I emphasize: it was a registered weapon. This is, of course, a violation of the law, but it falls under one of the lesser categories of offenses.

Despite this, the Prosecutor’s Office requested the strictest preventive measure — pre-trial detention. The court, taking into account all relevant circumstances — no prior convictions, personal characteristics, permanent employment in Europe, and more — imposed bail (at the highest possible amount). The Prosecutor’s Office is appealing the decision. The final outcome remains unclear.

Against this backdrop, journalists from Meladze’s outlet are asking absurd questions like, “How did you fix the case in court?” As of now, my son remains in custody. And I do not know what verdict the court will ultimately reach.

My family is truly going through a very difficult time, but everyone is equal before the law. Just as I abide by every provision of the law, so should everyone else — whether they are a journalist or from any other profession. No one has the right to use invented lies and deliberately spread disinformation to serve their own political narratives.