Ex-Georgian deputy minister detained in massive energy sector corruption probe

The State Security Service of Georgia has arrested Romeo Mikaoutadze, the former Deputy Minister of Economy, on charges of abuse of office and legalisation of illegal income amounting to millions of lari, the agency announced.

According to Caliber.Az, which cited Georgian media reports, Mikaoutadze served as Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia beginning in 2021 and was promoted to First Deputy Minister on December 30, 2022.

He remained in this role until February 11, 2024. His detention followed a court order.

The ongoing investigation has uncovered that Mikaoutadze misused his official authority, personal connections, and expertise in the energy sector to grant various individuals undue advantages for his own benefit.

In return for this illegal assistance, he acquired shares in energy companies, hydroelectric power plants, and other enterprises. Although these shares were officially registered under the names of trusted associates, they were effectively controlled by Mikaoutadze himself.

This scheme resulted in substantial illicit income for the former official. Furthermore, during his tenure at the Ministry of Economy, he systematically abused his official powers to secure benefits for himself and others, causing significant harm to the legitimate interests of the Georgian state, the ministry noted.

By Tamilla Hasanova