Director of the food company “Kula,” Vano Goglidze, has made his first public comment to BMG after being released on bail, rejecting the charges brought against him and stating that he does not consider himself guilty. He insists that he has never produced or supplied falsified canned products to anyone, including Georgian law enforcement agencies.
“I do not agree with the charges brought against me. I do not consider myself guilty. I have never produced or supplied falsified canned goods to anyone. All products were manufactured in full compliance with standards,” Goglidze said.
Goglidze was released on bail of 500,000 GEL, secured by real estate, following a court decision earlier in April. His lawyer confirmed that he was released without admitting guilt, and noted that the next hearing, where the case will move into its substantive phase, is scheduled for April 28.
The businessman was detained on February 20 by the Financial Police. According to the investigation, canned fish worth 380,792 GEL was supplied under state tenders for law enforcement and defense personnel. Authorities allege violations of food safety standards, while prosecutors say the products were unfit for consumption and in some cases potentially hazardous. The investigation continues under Article 197 of the Criminal Code, which carries a sentence of 5 to 7 years in prison.
