Mask-Wearing by Protesters May Be Banned, Kobakhidze Says

"In the majority of EU countries, it is forbidden for protesters to use certain means, such as concealing their faces. In recent days, it has become evident that the violent groups present, including their members and so-called violent Nazis (National Movement supporters) wore masks precisely because they were prepared for violence. Naturally, we will consider legislative changes in all directions. First and foremost, if someone insists on concealing their face, it is these violent Nazis who attend rallies," Kobakhidze said during today's briefing.

A journalist asked Irakli Kobakhidze why masked representatives of the police force do not have identification marks and why the government is not addressing this issue. In response, Kobakhidze highlighted the publication of a list of so-called "violent" special forces by the Mtavari Arkhi, stating, "The fascist lists demonstrated that it might not be appropriate to place identifying marks on the uniforms."

Since November 28, large-scale rallies have been taking place on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi, with thousands of citizens protesting the decision of Georgian Dream to suspend Georgia's European integration process. Over the past week, the Interior Ministry has repeatedly dispersed demonstrations using water cannons and tear gas, arresting more than 300 protesters, many of whom were severely beaten by police forces.

The Special Investigation Service has received 319 reports of police violence. The investigation is being conducted under Article 333, Part 3, Sub-Clause B, and Article 154, Part 2 of the Criminal Code, which pertain to police abuse of official authority and illegal interference with journalists' professional activities using their official status.

Identifying the special forces and other masked individuals involved in the violence remains practically impossible.