Police on High Alert as Ex-Security Chief’s Supporters Rallied

(Tbilisi. April 16, 2003. Civil Georgia) – Up to 100 supporters of ex-Security Minister Igor Giorgadze, which is wanted by Georgia for his alleged role in 1995 attempt on Shevardnadze’s life, tried to hold in vain a protest rally in front of the State Chancellery (President’s administration) today.

The police blocked the streets towards the State Chancellery and pushed the protesters’ away from the President’s office.

On April 15 Interior Minister Koba Narchemashvili said that the police would be on high alert as “disorders are anticipated in the [capital] city.”

The protesters demanded to stop pursuing Igor Giorgadze, which seeks for safe return in Georgia.

An international arrest warrant has been issued in connection with Giorgadze’s alleged role in failed terrorists attack against President Shevardnadze in August 1995.

Georgia unsuccessfully keeps demanding from the Russian side extradition of ex-Security Minister.