According to the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, Alexandre Darakhvelidze, “During yesterday’s protest, the Ministry of Internal Affairs warned the demonstrators and reminded them that the new law is in effect and that they must comply with the requirements established by the new law.”

He added that the police will act based on how the assembly or demonstration unfolds, and if the requirements of the law are violated, the Ministry of Internal Affairs will respond accordingly.

“If the protest is planned to take place on the roadway or pedestrian paths, a warning is required. Regarding the right to block the roadway, the law allows it only when protesters cannot express their dissent in other nearby areas and there is insufficient space. If the number of participants is not sufficient, the police have the authority to take appropriate measures.

“[Yesterday] no one was detained. The purpose of the warning was to inform that the new law is in effect and that participants must follow its requirements.

“Police action will depend on how the assembly or demonstration unfolds. If the law is violated, we will act accordingly,” Alexandre Darakhvelidze stated.