The Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA), in coordination with Turkish authorities, has detained 12 individuals wanted by Turkish law enforcement on serious criminal charges, officials announced on Wednesday.

Speaking at a press conference, Irakli Dondoladze, Deputy Director of the Central Criminal Police Department, confirmed that all suspects are listed on Interpol’s Red Notice database and face charges ranging from violent crime to large-scale fraud.

According to Dondoladze, the accusations include murder under aggravating circumstances, including the killing of a minor; attempted murder and armed robbery; illegal deprivation of liberty and causing serious bodily harm; formation and membership of organised crime groups; robbery, theft, and illegal possession and carrying of weapons; as well as drug-related offences, document forgery, and investment fraud in 178 separate cases.

Investigators revealed that eight of the detainees entered Georgia before international arrest warrants were issued, while the remaining four crossed the border illegally.

Dondoladze noted that legal proceedings are underway, with pre-extradition protocols being carried out in accordance with Georgian law.

The Deputy Director expressed gratitude to the Turkish Ministry of the Interior for its assistance in the operation, while officials from Georgia’s Interpol-Europol Department also thanked their Turkish counterparts for close cooperation. (ILKHA)