Employees of the Adjara Police Department of Georgia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs have arrested seven citizens of China and Thailand on charges of facilitating prostitution and providing premises for prostitution. The Ministry of Internal Affairs released the information.

According to the statement, evidence obtained through investigative actions carried out by law enforcement officers - including audio and video recordings authorized by a court order - indicates that the accused systematically rented out premises in facilities located in Batumi to women involved in prostitution in exchange for payment.

“They also facilitated individuals’ involvement in prostitution by attracting male clients seeking such services, collecting money earned through prostitution, and distributing the proceeds.

As a result of comprehensive investigative measures, police arrested seven individuals as defendants and closed 12 venues.

Women employed at these facilities were taken for questioning and for the completion of further legal procedures.

An investigation into the facilitation of prostitution and the provision of premises for prostitution is underway under Article 254 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which carries a penalty of up to four years’ imprisonment,” the statement said.