The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) has apprehended 34 individuals linked to alleged membership, support, or solicitation from Georgia’s so-called “criminal underworld” across five criminal cases. Additionally, seven others, including two in detention, four abroad, and one “thief in law”, have been charged in absentia.
During an operation in Kabali, Lagodekhi district, 1973-born Mirza Aliyev, wanted under a court order, opened fire on Special Task Force officers, seriously wounding one. Officers returned fire, killing Aliyev on the spot. The coordinated operation involved units from Central Criminal Police, Tbilisi, Kakheti, Mtskheta-Mtianeti, and Special Tasks Departments nationwide.
Investigations over several months revealed that the detainees, alleged members or supporters of the underworld, were involved in settling financial disputes, liaising with “thieves in law” abroad, and executing tasks assigned by them. Organized “thieves’ meetings” reportedly enforced fines or threats of death. Searches of residences and personal properties yielded computers, mobile phones, firearms, narcotics, and large sums of money.
In a related case, Davit Chubinidze, security chief of Davit Mikadze, was detained for illegally acquiring firearms, while Mikadze faces charges in absentia. Deputy Minister Aleksandre Darakhvelidze stressed that the Ministry remains committed to fighting organized crime and reducing criminal activity to historic lows.
