BBC: Georgian police may have used chemical weapons during protests

An investigative report by the BBC suggests that the Georgian authorities last year used a chemical known as kamite, which was used as a chemical weapon during the First World War, to quell protests. Protesters complained of burning skin, shortness of breath, coughing and vomiting that lasted for weeks after the protests.

Konstantin Chakhunashvili, a paediatrician and one of those affected, conducted a study among the protesters. This study showed that almost half of the 350 respondents reported long-term health problems to him. His report highlights the unusual impact of this chemical.

A BBC source from the Georgian riot police confirmed that the chemical had been tested in 2009 and continued to be used until at least 2022, despite recommendations. The police inventory, he said, contained two similar chemicals.

Chemical weapons expert Christopher Holstege confirmed that the clinical manifestations are consistent with the effects of kamite, which is significantly more potent and persistent compared to conventional tear gas.

The UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, Alice Edwards, described the use as a potentially abusive military technique with serious human rights violations.

The Georgian government has rejected the allegations, describing them as absurd. The protests in Tbilisi continue despite tough measures and fines, with demonstrators demanding the resignation of the government, which they accuse of election rigging and pro-Russian attitudes.

(sie)