Public Defender Demanded Minister of Justice to Study the Situation of Soldiers of Special Security Unit within the Penitentiary Department

Several days ago representatives of the Public Defender’s Office met soldiers from the Special Security Unit # 14 within the Penitentiary Department in Tbilisi Detention Setting # 6. In their conversation, soldiers complained about unbearable conditions they have to serve in.

The soldiers claim that there are not normal living conditions in their accommodations. They cannot receive proper meal - they get similar food everyday. In addition to that, hygiene norms are not preserved in the unit. Their military uniforms are not changed; they have problems with water supply and can take a bath only once a week. Soldiers do not have means of communication and cannot get in touch with their families.

According to militants, Special Security Unit # 14 within the Penitentiary Department is not provided with proper medical assistance and in the case of necessity the doctor arrives later.

In parallel with it, they are abused by officers. The soldiers were not allowed to finish their conversation with the representative of the Public Defender.

Regarding the situation, the Public Defender petitioned to the Georgian Minister of Justice, Gia Kavtaradze and demanded to study the situation and to take immediate measures to improve living conditions for soldiers.

Source: News Department for Public Defender’s Office