PM Kvirikashvili: “It’s not only act against state, but provocation by Georgia’s enemies”

Georgia’s Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili says the explosion of an opposition MP’s car in central Tbilisi this evening, which injured five people, is "not only an act committed against the state, but also a provocation set up by Georgia’s enemies to instigate instability in the country ahead of the elections”.

The Prime Minister addressed the nation in a special video statement last night, saying "this heinous crime can only serve the purpose of a force that is unable to make its peace with the free and peaceful electoral environment in our country”.

I address those responsible and those who carried out this provocation - You will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. No immunity or foreign citizenship will protect those implicated in this crime. Everyone involved will be held responsible,” underlined the leader of the country in his special message.

"Once and for all we will put an end to the practice of endangering people’s lives for political purposes,” stated Prime Minister Kvirikashvili.

Watch PM Kvirikashvili's special statement with the English subtitles below:

Five members of the public were injured and taken to the hospital in different conditions after the car belonging to United National Movement Member of Parliament Givi Targamadze exploded in central Tbilisi this evening. 

Targamadze suffered minor injuries in the incident.

The explosion was heard about 20:10 local time near the UNM office in central Tbilisi, near the flower market.

An investigation had been launched for 'attempted murder under aggravating circumstances'.