Eight Arrested over Kavkasia TV Fistfight

Eight persons were arrested in connection to an incident which took place during live televised debates on Tbilisi-based Kavkasia TV late on May 7 in which, among others, several employees of the TV station were verbally and physically assaulted by activists of a radical Orthodox Christian groups.

“Investigation has found out that some persons invited to take part in a live televised program on Kavkasia TV, in prior agreement to their supporters outside the TV studio deliberately thwarted the TV program. They were intending to violently disrupt journalists from disseminating information unfavorable for them, which then grew into hooliganism. Kavkasia TV’s founder, Davit Akubardia, and several other TV staff were physically insulted,” the Chief Prosecutor’s Office said on May 8.

In a statement released on May 8, President Saakashvili condemned “attack on journalists”.

“The President has instructed law enforcement agencies to fully investigate the case and to hold responsible those who have participated in violence and assault, as envisaged by the law.” President’s spokesperson, Manana Manjgaladze, said. “Any violence against journalists and against those having dissenting opinion will be eradicated.”

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