Instances of pressure exerted on individuals detained on the Case of the Ministry of Agriculture need to be investigated

GYLA representative visited seven imprisoned individuals on the Case of the Ministry of Agriculture in Gldani penitentiary. Following detailed communication with them, some topical issues were identified that require attention from investigative agencies and public. 

Four from the seven detainees report that while being questioned in “Moduli” building, Shota Rizhamadze, the prosecutor and an investigator exerted psychological pressure on them and abused them verbally. Generally, the process of examination started in the evening and sometimes lasted even eight hours. As the detainees allege, the examination process lasted only for an hour or an hour and a half, however, they had to stay in “Moduli” building for a long period. Moreover, all individuals were questioned with witness status and without lawyers’ participation. Imprisoned individuals also reported on facts of pressure from Rizhamadze’s side during the trial and requested his removal from the case, the judge, however, did not satisfy their claim. It is also unknown if allegations on pressure had any response.