US calls for prompt investigation into death of Georgian man near Abkhazia ABL

The United States (US) has condemned the brutal murder of a Georgian man near the Administrative Boundary Line (ABL) separating de facto Abkhazia region from the rest of Georgia.

The US Embassy in Tbilisi released a statement urging a prompt investigation of the case.

"The United States condemns the fatal shooting of an unarmed man in the village of Khurcha, close to the Nabakevi Crossing Point on the Administrative Boundary Line (ABL),” the statement read.

"We extend our condolences and deepest sympathies to the family of the deceased and urge that a thorough and prompt investigation take place immediately and that those responsible for this tragedy be held accountable.”

The Embassy noted this shooting demonstrated the need for urgent resumption of the Gali Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM) as well as for international security arrangements on both sides of the ABL.

"The United States fully supports Georgia's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders,” the Embassy noted.

A 31-year-old Georgian man was on Georgian-controlled territory when he was gunned down by Russia’s border guards stationed near the ABL with breakaway Abkhazia.

Video of the incident showed the man retreating away from a confrontation when he was shot six times, including once in the face, by border guards despite being on territory under Georgian jurisdiction and control.

The incident happened about 3pm on May 19.

The victim is survived by his wife and two children (pictured above).