Liberty Institute and ALPE Statement

Liberty Intstitute and ALPE Statement

The Liberty Institute and Association for Legal and Public Education (ALPE) wish to express thier deep concern about the actions committed recently by representatives of the police. Apparently, the change of government in Georgia has not altered the style of operation of law enforcement agencies. Moreover, attacks by police on peaceful demonstrators lead us to believe that violence from the police is still widespread.

We are particularly concerned with events that took place on January 11th, when a small group of citizens blocked the road in Terjola for less than an hour. After this demonstration police attacked and beat both the demostrators and unfortunate citizens who happened to be in the area at the time. However, the demonstrators themselves did not resort to violence. The police actions were caught on film by news cameras. In addition, on the same day in Rustavi, after a small demonstration was held, police followed the participants, enetered into their private homes, and severely beat them.

After these crimes were committed by the police, the prosecutors office and and local courts would not get involved in the case. Instead, many demonstrators were arrested and charged with "non-complience of police legal requests, and blocking of transport and roads". Several persons are being held in 3 months pre-tiral detenion. These people are being charged with violating the Criminal Code.

Human rights were also violated in Shida Kartli, where so-called "police raids" were conducted in order to find brothels.

The actions above violate fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression and the right to assembly, that are guaranteed by Constitution of Georgia. The type of actions carried out recently were unheard of even during the previous regime.

We had no illusions that the police would change their style of operation overnight. However, we are concerned about the inaction of government officials, especially in the Ministry of Internal Affairs. These incidents were widely covered by media, and regional representatives of the Liberty Institute have addressed the Ministry and published statements, but no response has been received.

We hope that Ministry of Internal Affairs and General Prosecutor's Office will take all necessary measures to punish the perpetrators and focus more attention on human rights violations.in the and .

Liberty Institute
ALPE