According to the Director of the Central Criminal Police Department, David Kiknadze, at a briefing, charges were also brought against 7 additional individuals - some of whom are already in penitentiary institutions, while others were charged in absentia, including two so-called “thieves-in-law” currently abroad.

As stated, investigative activities revealed that the accused organized so-called “thieves’ gatherings” and issued “thieves’ decisions” in criminal proceedings.

The detainees were in contact with representatives of the “thieves’ world,” including so-called “thieves-in-law” Levan Marghia and Nodar Shukakidze, who, for personal gain and in accordance with “thieves’ rules,” made decisions regarding financial and criminal disputes between citizens, subsequently imposing payments on the parties involved. If deadlines were violated, threats of physical violence and even murder were made.

Investigators also found that members of the group moved around different districts of Tbilisi by car, selected specific individuals in advance, and forced them against their will to activate loans through internet banking. The funds were then transferred to accounts controlled by the group, resulting in large-scale financial appropriation.

The investigation further established that the accused regularly provided information to “thieves-in-law” about residents of Tbilisi who could be targeted for extortion and financial gain under the name of the “thieves’ world.”

During searches, mobile phones and computer equipment used for communication between the suspects and foreign-based “thieves-in-law” were seized. Firearms were also confiscated as evidence.

The investigation is ongoing under Articles 223¹, 223³, 223⁴, and 236 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which carry penalties of up to 15 years in prison.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs stated it will continue active efforts against organized crime and the so-called “thieves’ world” to ensure public safety and the rule of law, emphasizing that anyone involved in criminal activity will be held accountable under the full force of the law.