Three Georgian citizens have been detained in the Pankisi Gorge in connection with a case involving links to a terrorist organization and the facilitation of terrorist activities. This was reported by Lasha Magradze, First Deputy Head of the State Security Service (SSG) of Georgia.
“According to the investigation, it has been established that the detainees joined the ranks of the ‘Islamic State’ terrorist organization and received instructions from abroad for the purpose of carrying out terrorist activities,” the official stated.
The SSG claims that they attempted to establish a group of supporters for the organization in the Pankisi Gorge—a so-called “jamaat”—and recruit others into it. To this end, they held secret meetings in various locations and disseminated radical ideas.
The operation took place in the villages of Omalo, Birkiani, and Jokolo. During searches, authorities seized weapons, explosives, ammunition, phones, computers, and Islamic State symbols from the detainees.
Investigative actions in the case are ongoing. Law enforcement officers are also searching for other potential participants.
“The investigation is being conducted under Articles 328 and 236 of the Criminal Code of Georgia. These crimes carry a penalty of imprisonment for a term of 10 to 17 years.
The investigation into the case continues—law enforcement officers are identifying other possible participants and taking measures to bring them to justice,” Magradze concluded.