Yesterday, Vakhtang Gomelauri, Minister of Internal Affairs, announced that the Ministry of Internal Affairs had acquired new water cannons.
Gomelauri said that the Ministry bought three units in different modifications, highlighting a need for updated equipment. “We purchased new machines.” The previous administration purchased the water cannons in 2006 or 2007. It was time to upgrade. “We now have several new cannons in stock.”
He also spoke about the enhancements of the arsenal of special forces, including automatic weapons and pistols.
The Minister clarified the new regulations regarding the use of tear gas and water jets during crowd control. “It’s incorrect to say that simultaneous usage is prohibited. In 2021, an order from 2015 was amended to allow the practice in European countries. Special forces are allowed to use both gas and water, but not if there are children or pregnant women present. Both can be used together in cases of serious threats.
The Pirveli TV program ‘Nodar Meladze Saturday’ reported that during spring protests against “Russian” laws, tear gas and water jets were mixed together and used against demonstrators. The Ministry claims that the Law of Georgia on the Police does not prohibit the simultaneous use of both water jets and tears gas.
The order N1002, which outlines guidelines for police conduct at protests and gatherings, prohibits this simultaneous use.
Source: Netgazeti
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