Defence Forces to join search, rescue operations in disaster zone in Georgia’s west following landslide - PM

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili on Friday said units from the Georgian Defence Forces would join the ongoing search and rescue operations in the western municipality of Oni to find remaining survivors after a landslide killed at least 11 in the Shovi resort on Thursday.

The head of the Government was briefed on search and rescue efforts in the disaster zone, and told local media troops with specialised equipment would join the efforts.

Georgian Defence Minister Juansher Burchuladze on Friday said the National Guard and a company-sized unit of the Third Brigade of the GDF would start to mobilise “in a few hours” with appropriate equipment to respond to the call-up.

In other comments, Garibashvili called circumstances in the affected zone “difficult” following his visit, adding the work to find survivors would continue during the weekend.

He also noted individuals rescued by professionals since the start of the operations, and added the situation on the ground was “absolutely under control”. The PM added there was “no need” in requesting assistance from neighbouring countries for the rescue efforts.

He also responded to criticism from “loser politicians and the opposition”, and criticised the media for “immoral” commentary involving “lies” on the Government having failed to purchase new helicopters usable for rescue operations over the recent years, and questioning a lack of nighttime lighting equipment on helicopters that were being used for the operation.

The Georgian Interior Ministry on Friday said 400 rescuers and two helicopters were involved in the search and rescue operation for 35 missing individuals, after 210 were evacuated from the disaster zone late on Thursday.