Independent agency to look into possible crimes committed by law enforcers starting November 1

The creation of an independent mechanism in Georgia to investigate possible crimes committed by law enforcers has been long-demanded by NGOs and the opposition. Photo: police.ge. 

Agenda.ge, 30 Oct 2019 - 13:54, Tbilisi,Georgia

A new, independent agency, the State Inspector’s Office, which replaced the Personal Data Protection Inspector’s Office back in July 2019, will begin its function to investigate possible crimes committed by law enforcers and state officials starting November 1.

An event was held earlier today to mark the upcoming launch of the work of the agency and was attended by top Georgian officials. 

The proper investigation of possible crimes committed by law enforcers and officials has been long demanded by the opposition and NGOs and was recommended by international organisations. 

Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia said that the investigation of possible offences committed by law enforcers has been a challenge for the Georgian law enforcement system.

Georgian PM Giorgi Gakharia said that the investigative function of the new agency will benefit Georgia's law enforcement system. Photo: government of Georgia press office. 

I believe that granting the right to investigate possible crimes committed by law enforcers to this independent agency will play a big role in boosting trust in the law enforcement system,” Gakharia said.

He stated that the creation of an independent investigative mechanism and the State Inspector’s Office was one of the “main components of democratic reforms” in the country.

This is the most important step taken in the justice system of Georgia over the past one year,” Gakharia said.

The Georgian government supported the creation of the State Inspector’s Office in February 2018.

EU Ambassador to Georgia Carl Hartzell tweeted: