Georgian man detained by occupation forces last year released

A Georgian citizen has been released from illegal detention near the occupation line separating the Russian occupied region of Abkhazia from the rest of Georgia.

Paata Rogava returned to his home in the western region of Samegrelo yesterday. His sister said Rogava feels well but is in poor condition.

Russian-backed occupation forces detained Rogava and his father near the occupation line last April for allegedly crossing the so-called border.

Paata Rogava and his father Archil are from the conflict-affected village of Rike in Zugdidi municipality, close to the occupation line.

Rogava’s father was released last December.

The illegal detention of Georgian citizens by Russian guards is a common issue near the occupation line. Detainees are usually released once their family pays a fine.

• Read also: 514 people illegally detained at occupation line in 2017