Georgian Journalist Eliso Kiladze Arrested as Part of Fraud and Money-Laundering Probe

Prominent Georgian investigative journalist Eliso Kiladze, editor-in-chief of media outlets Qronika+ and CNews, was detained by authorities in Tbilisi on February 18, 2026, in connection with a high-profile criminal investigation into alleged fraud and money laundering linked to so-called “call centre” operations, according to multiple reports. The arrest has sparked debate within Georgia over press freedom and the use of criminal charges in politically-sensitive cases.

Georgia’s Prosecutor General’s Office announced that Kiladze is one of ten individuals now facing prosecution for their alleged roles in a large-scale scheme that defrauded more than 200 foreign citizens of an estimated USD 9.5 million through fraudulent call centre operations, prosecutors said. The charges brought against the group include membership in an organised criminal group, fraud, and money laundering, offences that carry potential prison terms of nine to twelve years under Georgian law.

According to the official indictment, the organised network allegedly established multiple call centre entities in Tbilisi between 2020 and 2023 that lured foreign individuals to fake investment platforms, misappropriated funds or cryptocurrency, and then transferred and laundered those proceeds through complex financial transactions. Prosecutors also claimed that some defendants protected the scheme, facilitating its operation and shielding it from law enforcement interference.

In the same case, charges were filed in absentia against Georgia’s former Prosecutor General Otar Partskhaladze, who is reportedly outside the country, as well as other key figures alleged to be part of the broader criminal group. Several suspects are already in custody on related charges, while others are said to be cooperating with authorities and may face modified pre-trial conditions.

Kiladze’s detention, carried out early on the morning of February 18 by masked law enforcement officers, drew swift attention across Georgian media and civil society circles. Supporters of the journalist — known for her investigative reporting on organised crime, corruption, and legal proceedings — have expressed concern that the charges may be politically motivated or linked to her professional activities, rather than rooted in criminal conduct. Kiladze herself has denied any wrongdoing and emphasised her lack of involvement in criminal activity, asserting that her reporting should not be conflated with illicit behaviour.

Critics of the prosecution argue that the case illustrates the risks faced by journalists covering powerful figures and controversial topics in Georgia’s charged political climate. As legal proceedings advance, debates over press freedom, judicial independence, and the appropriate use of criminal law in addressing complex financial schemes are likely to intensify across both national and international media communities.

Reference –

https://www.kyivpost.com/post/70325

Journalist Eliso Kiladze Arrested as Ten Face Charges Over Alleged Scam Call Centers