On July 7, 2025, former Chairman of the Government of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara, Tornike Rizhvadze, was hospitalized with a gunshot wound to the chest, the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) has confirmed. The incident occurred in Sagarejo, and Rizhvadze was admitted to Sagarejo Geohospital, where he remains in serious but stable condition following emergency medical treatment.
According to medical staff, the bullet injured his lung, requiring immediate intervention. He is currently under close observation.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs has launched an investigation under Article 115 of Georgia’s Criminal Code, which pertains to abetment or incitement to suicide. The investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement conducting intensive procedural actions to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
In connection with the case, one individual has been detained under Article 238, which concerns negligent storage of a firearm. The identity of the detainee has not been publicly disclosed, and no additional information has been released about their relationship to Rizhvadze or their potential role in the incident.
Tornike Rizhvadze, a prominent political figure and former regional leader, previously served as Chairman of the Government of Adjara from 2018 to 2024. His sudden hospitalization has prompted widespread public concern and speculation, though officials have urged restraint as the investigation unfolds.
Authorities have not yet ruled out any scenarios, and further updates are expected as the case develops.
