Massive power outage in Georgia probed as suspected sabotage
Georgia opens a probe after two days of nationwide blackouts (photo: Getty Images)
Georgia is investigating the widespread power outages that struck the country on July 24 and 25 as a criminal case for sabotage, the country's State Security Service reports.
The agency said the investigation was launched under Article 318 of the Criminal Code of Georgia.
The article covers sabotage and provides for criminal liability for disrupting, damaging, or destroying the normal operation of a state-owned enterprise or other critical facilities if such actions pose a threat to the country's national interests.
"The State Security Service will keep the public informed about the progress of the investigation in stages," the statement said.
Blackouts in Georgia
As previously reported, a massive blackout hit Georgia overnight on July 24. Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi, Kobuleti, Telavi, and several other cities were left without electricity.
Several regions also experienced disruptions to mobile communications, internet service, and traffic lights.
On July 25, the country suffered a second major power grid failure. At around 8:00 a.m. local time, electricity was once again cut off in Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi, and other communities.
The subway was temporarily shut down in the capital, and train service was disrupted. The shutdown of pumping stations also left parts of Tbilisi without water, while residents reported unstable mobile internet service.
