Tbilisi Protest Leads to Detention of 14 Individuals, Including Journalist Vakho Sanaia

On October 18, 2025, Georgian authorities detained 14 individuals during a protest on Tbilisi's Rustaveli Avenue. The Ministry of Internal Affairs cited offenses such as blocking traffic and concealing faces, actions now punishable under recent legislation. Among those detained were journalist Vakho Sanaia, co-anchor of TV Formula's main news program, and

activists Levan Jobava and Shalva Chubinidze.

Tbilisi City Court sentenced Jobava and Chubinidze to 14 days of administrative detention, while Sanaia received a six-day sentence.

TV Formula condemned the detention, labeling it an attack on independent media and a violation of civil rights. The Georgian Charter of Journalistic Ethics also called for Sanaia's immediate release, emphasizing the ongoing pressure on the media under the current government.

The protest occurred amid heightened tensions over new laws restricting public demonstrations. Authorities have initiated administrative proceedings against 13 additional individuals linked to the protest.

Sanaia's detention has drawn international attention, with calls for the protection of press freedom and civil liberties in Georgia.