Gaoli Giorgi Ramishvili, businessman, granted release on a bail of 70,000 GEL.
In a recent turn of events, Georgian businessman Giorgi Ramishvili, known for his involvement in companies such as Silk Road Group, Silknet, and Euronews Georgia, among others, has been released on bail following his arrest on July 6, 2025, at Tbilisi International Airport. The charges against him stem from an alleged violation of Article 236, Part 4 of the Georgian Criminal Code, which concerns the illegal acquisition, possession, carrying, manufacture, transport, shipment, or sale of firearms, ammunition, explosives, or explosive devices.
During security screening of his hand luggage, authorities found a 9mm WALTHER PPK/S pistol, a magazine, and seven live rounds. Although the weapon was registered to Ramishvili for storage, he was not authorized to carry it, making the incident a breach of Georgian law. This offense carries a potential prison sentence of 4 to 7 years.
Following his arrest, prosecutors requested pre-trial detention, and the motion was filed with the Tbilisi City Court and assigned to Judge Nana Shamatava. The Prosecutor’s Office charged Ramishvili accordingly and requested detention pending trial.
Ramishvili's lawyer, Irma Chkadua, described the incident as an "unforeseen mistake" and denied any political motivation behind the arrest. She emphasized that Ramishvili does not see this as connected to politics and reserved detailed comments until further legal processes unfold.
Despite the prosecutor's ongoing request for preventive measures, Judge Nana Shamatava ordered a 70,000 GEL bail for Ramishvili, setting conditions for him to be released. Ramishvili has been given 30 days to pay the bail. It is worth noting that Ramishvili has cooperated fully with the investigation.
The preliminary court hearing for Ramishvili is scheduled for August 26 at 15:00. During this hearing, the defense requested that Ramishvili be granted bail in the amount of 50,000 GEL and released from custody. The defense also stated that the case lacks evidence showing a tendency toward criminal behavior.
The prosecutor, Nino Tsikhiashvili, argued that there is a reasonable suspicion Ramishvili might attempt to flee or commit a new crime if released. However, the judge ultimately granted bail, citing the minimal risk of Ramishvili fleeing.
This case has attracted public attention partly due to Ramishvili's profile as a founder of major companies like Silk Road Group and Silknet, and his companies' recent support for Georgia’s EU integration. As the case moves forward through the Georgian judicial system, the public will continue to follow the developments closely.
| Aspect | Details | |-------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | **Charges** | Illegal carrying of a firearm (Article 236, Part 4) | | **Evidence** | 9mm Walther pistol, magazine, and 7 rounds found in carry-on luggage at airport | | **Legal action** | Pre-trial detention requested; arrest on July 6, 2025 | | **Potential sentence** | 4 to 7 years imprisonment | | **Defense position** | Lawyer calls it an unforeseen mistake; denies political motives | | **Current status** | Released on bail; legal proceedings ongoing | | **Court** | Tbilisi City Court, Judge Nana Shamatava |
In the financial arena, the lawsuit against Giorgi Ramishvili, a prominent businessman, involves charges of illegally carrying a firearm, as stipulated in Article 236, Part 4 of the Georgian Criminal Code. The business world is keeping a close eye on this case due to Ramishvili's significant involvement in companies such as Silk Road Group and Silknet.
