**Russian Couple on Trial in Tbilisi for Drug Charges**
A court case is ongoing in the Georgian capital of Tbilisi against a Russian couple, Anastasia Zinovkina and Artem Gribul. The two are accused of possessing large quantities of drugs.
**The Case**
Zinovkina and Gribul were arrested on December 17, 2024. They face charges under Article 260, Section 6, Part A of the Criminal Code of Georgia. If convicted, they could receive sentences ranging from eight to 20 years or life imprisonment.
**Defendants Deny Charges**
The couple denies the charges, saying police planted drugs on them. Prosecutors claim that 16 grams of the synthetic drug alpha-PVP were seized during searches of their home and personal belongings.
**Controversy in Court**
A hearing on March 13 was marked by controversy when the prison escort seated the defendants separately for “security reasons.” The defense lawyer accused the escort of insulting his client and asked the judge to identify the officer. However, the judge denied both requests.
**Defendants Link Arrest to Protests**
The defendants have pleaded not guilty, linking their arrest to their involvement in recent protests in Tbilisi. They argued that the arrests were politically motivated and linked them to the couple’s involvement in the protests.
**Next Court Appearance**
Their next court appearance is scheduled for April 1. Another Russian citizen, Anton Chechin, remains in custody on similar drug charges.
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