JUSTICE FOR TORTURED GEORGIAN PROTESTER

Dear Mr. Gvarakidze,

I am writing to express grave concern regarding the allegations of torture and other ill-treatment of activist Saba Skhvitaridze, who was arrested on December 5, 2024, after participating in an anti-government protest. He was beaten by police officers and denied access to legal counsel and medical care.

Saba reported that, while in custody, he was threatened with rape and forced to sign a “confession” stating he assaulted a police officer. When he refused, masked officers beat him violently, striking his head and ribs continuously for about 10 minutes, causing him to intermittently lose consciousness. Police officers then mocked and ignored his plea for access to a lawyer and medical assistance despite him having injuries that caused him severe pain and nausea.

Despite the visible injuries that Saba displayed at the pre-trial hearing the following day, the prosecution refused to initiate an investigation into his allegations of torture and other ill-treatment. The authorities only initiated an investigation days later after an independent medical examination confirmed that his injuries were consistent with torture. Nevertheless, the judge ordered him to be remanded in detention pending trial without providing any justification.

Saba Skhvitaridze remains held at a high security prison, facing a sentence of up to eleven years while his allegations of torture and other ill-treatment have not been effectively investigated.

I urge you to ensure an effective investigation into the allegations of torture and other ill-treatment of Saba Skhvitaridze and to bring all those responsible to justice in fair trials. I also call on you to ensure that Saba is tried in accordance with international standards for a fair trial, and to ensure that any statements or other evidence obtained as a result of torture or other ill treatment is excluded in all proceedings except those brought against suspected perpetrators of such abuse.

Yours sincerely,

[YOUR NAME]