Cryptocurrency Scandal: Arrest of Georgia's Ex-Aide Unravels Political Tensions

Giorgi Bachiashvili, a former aide to Georgia's de facto leader Bidzina Ivanishvili, was arrested for embezzling over $800 million in cryptocurrency. Bachiashvili, sentenced in absentia, claims political motivation and denies wrongdoing. The case highlights Georgia's shifting political landscape amid international scrutiny and domestic opposition.

In a dramatic turn of events, Georgian authorities have apprehended Giorgi Bachiashvili, an ex-aide accused of embezzling cryptocurrency worth over $800 million from Georgia's unofficial leader Bidzina Ivanishvili.

Bachiashvili, who fled earlier this year, was captured near the borders with Armenia and Azerbaijan following an anonymous tip-off. Once Ivanishvili's confidant, Bachiashvili has been sentenced in absentia to 11 years in prison, a judgment he dismisses as politically charged.

The case underscores Georgia's turbulent political atmosphere, with some calling it a move against dissenters. Bachiashvili's arrest is seen amid allegations of forced repatriation and potential torture risks, a claim vehemently denied by his legal team.

(With inputs from agencies.)