Security Forces Clash with Protesters in Batumi

A protest rally was reportedly attacked by the local security forces in Adjarian capital Batumi on May 4.

Georgian televisions showed footage of security forces attacking and beating up protesters with truncheons.

Initially the security forces tried to disband protesters with water cannon whoever failed and used truncheons later.

Dozens of protesters are reportedly injured.

Students of Batumi University held a protest rally in the Adjarian capital on May 4, demanding Adjarian leader Aslan Abashidze’s resignation and holding snap elections of the local legislative body. 

Witnesses say that another group of protesters, which was trying to join students outside the Batumi University, were attacked by the security forces.

The Parliamentary session will discuss recent developments in Adjara later on May 4. “Alarming news are coming from Batumi,” Nino Burjanadze, Parliamentary Chairperson told lawmakers, referring to the clashes in Batumi.

“We should thoroughly discuss the issue including explosion of bridges by the local authorities of Adjara,” Nino Burjanadze added.