Georgian Journalist Fined After Detention Over Police Dispute

April 8, 2025 – Georgia –

In April 2025, Georgian journalist Saba Sordia, affiliated with the online magazine Indigo, was detained by police near the Marjanishvili metro station in Tbilisi. The incident began when officers stopped Sordia for an identity check and proceeded to search his bag. Sordia complied with the request but objected when officers attempted to open a specific pocket, insisting he would do it himself. This disagreement led to his arrest on charges of disobeying a lawful police order under Article 173 of the Administrative Offenses Code.

Following his arrest on April 6, Sordia was held in administrative detention for 48 hours. During this period, he reported experiencing verbal abuse from officers, including homophobic remarks related to his appearance, such as wearing an earring. Additionally, his GoPro camera was confiscated by the police.

At a court hearing on April 8, Sordia recounted the events leading to his detention, emphasizing that he had not used any offensive language towards the officers, contrary to their claims. He also highlighted inconsistencies in the testimonies of the officers involved. Despite these assertions, on April 17, the Tbilisi City Court fined Sordia 2,500 GEL (approximately €800) for disobeying police orders. Sordia has announced plans to appeal the decision, maintaining that his detention and subsequent fine were unjustified.

This incident has raised concerns among press freedom advocates, who view it as part of a broader pattern of pressure and repression faced by journalists in Georgia. Organizations monitoring media freedom have noted an increase in such cases, where journalists encounter legal challenges and intimidation in the course of their work.

The case of Saba Sordia underscores the challenges faced by journalists in Georgia and highlights the importance of safeguarding press freedom and ensuring that journalists can operate without fear of retaliation or undue interference.

Reference – 

https://oc-media.org/georgian-journalist-released-from-administrative-detention-after-48-hours/

Court to announce decision in case of journalist Saba Sordia’s detention