Statement of the Human Rights Center

The Human Rights Center has been protecting the interests of photo-reporter Zurab Kurtsikidze, accused of the “espionage”, since July 7- the day of his detention.

On the same day – July 7, the Center’s lawyer Nino Andriashvili said after her meeting with the photo-reporter that Kurtsikidze had some bruises on the face so it was clear that the detainee was under physical and psychological oppression; he confirmed the fact in informal talks with the lawyer. At that moment, Kurtsikidze was not yet pleading guilty.

Later, Zurab Kurtsikidze pleaded guilty. However, the Human Rights Center believes that the confession was result of a physical and psychological oppression and does not demonstrate the free will of Kurtsikidze.

The Human Rights Center refused to further participate in the process and protests oppression and violation on the detainee.

The Human Rights Center calls upon the international organizations and diplomatic corps to respond to the fact.

The Human Rights Center
21.07.11