Employees of the Tbilisi Police Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, as a result of a comprehensive police operation in Tbilisi, detained 13 people supporting different neo-Nazi groups and fascist ideology, Tbilisi Police Department Director Vazha Siradze announced at a briefing.

According to Vazha Siradze, the individuals supporting neo-Nazi groups and fascist ideology physically and psychologically abused people of various ages with extreme cruelty.

“Among the detainees, 7 are minors. Additionally, within the ongoing investigation of this criminal case, based on collected evidence, 4 more individuals currently in penitentiary institutions will face additional charges for organizing and participating in group violence.

As a result of investigative actions conducted over several months, it was established that members of these violent groups identified themselves as neo-Nazis and were guided by fascist ideology.

To gain notoriety, promote fascist ideology, and expand the influence of their neo-Nazi network, they displayed radical attitudes toward their victims and, with extreme cruelty, used various blunt and sharp objects - including knuckle dusters - to attack their targets. Those who did not share fascist beliefs were treated especially brutally.

Additionally, during attacks on victims, members of the radical groups robbed them and extorted certain amounts of money.

Members of the groups recorded photo and video material documenting the violence, torture, acts of humiliation, and physical and psychological pressure against victims on mobile phones and deliberately posted it on various internet platforms.

It is noteworthy that, due to conflicts of interest and disagreements, members of different neo-Nazi groups also attacked each other violently, as confirmed by evidence obtained during the ongoing investigation.

As a result of these violent actions, around ten people were harmed, including two minors.

During searches of the suspects’ homes, authorities seized firearms, blank-firing and cold weapons, items with Nazi symbols, mobile phones, masks, and various electronic devices.

The investigation is being conducted under Articles 144¹, 225, 178, 181, and 236 of the Criminal Code, covering premeditated torture of minors, group violence, illegal acquisition, possession, and carrying of firearms, organization of violence, robbery, and extortion. Convictions under these articles carry a sentence of up to 15 years in prison.

The public is reminded that several leaders of radical fascist groups are already serving sentences for similar charges in penitentiary institutions after being arrested by law enforcement several months ago. Alongside them, 24 other members of various neo-Nazi groups have also been detained.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs continues its fight against violent groups adhering to fascist ideology. We again urge every member of society to immediately report any signs of such crimes, to prevent cruel treatment of minors and the spread of this ideology among youth.

“I would also like to thank every employee of the Tbilisi Police Department for successfully carrying out this operation,” said Vazha Siradze.