Georgia experienced a serious incident on March 23, 2026, involving a teenager’s arrest following a fabricated terrorism report. Authorities have charged a minor in Georgia with disseminating false information about a potential attack. The situation unfolded during the funeral ceremony for Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia Ilia II at Holy Trinity Cathedral, commonly known as Sameba Cathedral.
Investigators determined that two anonymous phone calls were received by the Interior Ministry around 2:30 PM on March 22nd. The caller falsely claimed to be near the cathedral, possessing a firearm, and stated that the surrounding area had been planted with explosives. He further asserted that an explosion was imminent unless an immediate evacuation occurred within twenty minutes.
The investigation revealed the individual utilized voice-altering software, a virtual phone number from another country, and concealed his IP address, suggesting a deliberate attempt to conceal his identity. The State Security Service identified the teenager later that evening. Law enforcement seized numerous electronic devices as evidence, and the suspect ultimately confessed to his actions.
He has been formally charged under Article 331 of the Criminal Code, concerning knowingly false reports of terrorism, carrying a potential prison sentence of three to six years. The State Security Service emphasized its counterterrorism center’s capabilities and warned of severe legal repercussions for such violations. The death of Patriarch Ilia II, at 93, marks the conclusion of a significant era where the Church played a crucial role in Georgia’s social stability.
Thousands of mourners queued for extended periods in Tbilisi to pay their respects.
Topics: #georgia #false #terrorism
