Blocking strategic or specially important sites “punishable act” – Georgian Interior Ministry issues statement on planned protest
Photo: Ministry of Internal Affairs
The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia on Sunday issued a warning regarding a protest scheduled to take place on Sunday, emphasising that blocking a strategic or specially important site was a punishable offence.
The Ministry called on organisers and participants of the protest to express their dissent within the legal framework.
“As the public is aware, a protest is planned today near the exit of [the capital city of] Tbilisi. Protesters are gathering at multiple locations and intend to assemble near the city’s exit. To ensure public safety and maintain order, representatives of relevant [police] units are mobilised at each location. Law enforcement officers will ensure that the gathering proceeds peacefully and within the legal framework to prevent any unlawful actions”, the statement said.
The Ministry stressed that strategic or critically important infrastructure, including international highways, was protected under the Georgian Government's Decree, adding that blocking such infrastructure constituted a punishable offence under Article 222 of the Criminal Code of Georgia.
“As it is known, the protesters plan to block an internationally significant highway. We remind the organisers and participants that, according to the Georgian Government’s Decree, international highways are classified as strategic and specially designated sites”, the Ministry noted.
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