By Comfort Asemota
Georgia has opened an investigation following a BBC report claiming that authorities deployed a World War One-era chemical agent to disperse anti-government protesters last year. The report has intensified scrutiny of the country’s handling of months of political unrest.
The BBC reported on December 1 that it had gathered evidence suggesting that Georgian authorities used a chemical weapon to quell protests. The investigation cited testimonies from protesters, whistleblowers, UN experts, local specialists, medical studies, and written documents.
In response, Georgia’s State Security Service announced an inquiry to verify the information the BBC relied on, including interviews and documents. The agency said the report:
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“Contains indications of a crime which, if confirmed, would endanger the life and health of citizens and violate their lawful interests.”
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“Also contains indications of a crime that could seriously harm Georgia’s national interests, international image, and reputation.”
The BBC defended its reporting, emphasizing that it was “firmly in the public interest” and that the evidence was carefully presented.
Georgia has faced ongoing political turmoil since last year’s parliamentary elections, which opposition parties allege were rigged in favor of the ruling Georgian Dream party. Tensions escalated after the government postponed EU membership talks until 2028, sparking mass protests across the country.
During the demonstrations, authorities used water cannons and tear gas to disperse crowds. Reports from the national rights ombudsman and Amnesty International claimed that treatment of detained protesters amounted to torture.
The Georgian Dream party has repeatedly denied accusations of democratic backsliding and rejected claims that the government is pursuing a pro-Russian agenda.
