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Reports of increased searches and mobile phone confiscations in Akhalgori district
15.04.2026

Reports from Akhalgori district indicate a near-weekly occurrence of searches and interrogations carried out in the homes of local residents. According to locals, these actions are conducted by individuals arriving from Tskhinvali together with officers of the so-called KGB.

Last week, a search was conducted at the home of a local man. Although he is ethnically Ossetian and does not travel to the territory controlled by the Georgian authorities, his wife does periodically cross the so-called border. According to available information, law enforcement officers removed mobile phones from the household and thoroughly inspected the residence, without providing any explanation.

A similar incident was reported at another household, where a male resident, currently unemployed, had recently returned following a medical procedure in Tbilisi. Shortly after his return, his home, basement, and yard were searched, and his mobile phone was likewise confiscated. No official explanations have been given in either case.

Citing the stated motive of searching for weapons and narcotic substances, another search was carried out at the home of a socially vulnerable family, where only one member is employed and, due to severe economic hardship, the children are being raised in institutional care. According to family members, mobile phones were also confiscated during the search. A few days later, a similar search was conducted at the home of a relative of the same family, who lives in a border village.

It is noted that the searches are being carried out without warrants and are not linked to any specific criminal investigation. Despite this, residents reportedly do not offer resistance due to fear.

According to the assessments of local residents, similar practices have existed in the past, although they now appear to be more widespread. Some members of the community say they are unable to understand the purpose behind these actions.

The ongoing developments have further deepened a sense of despair among the people of Akhalgori. Mobile phones are often their only means of maintaining contact with family members, including via video calls. The current practice significantly restricts this possibility.