Georgia, Kazakhstan crack down on illegal firearms, ammunition in major raids PHOTO

Law enforcement agencies in Georgia and Kazakhstan have stepped up operations against the illegal circulation of firearms and ammunition, resulting in multiple arrests and large-scale seizures.

Georgian police detained 13 individuals on charges of illegal acquisition, possession, and carrying of firearms and ammunition, in Tbilisi and several regions, including Guria, Kvemo Kartli, and Shida Kartli, Caliber.Az reports per Georgian media.

Some of those arrested have prior criminal records and face up to seven years in prison. Searches of homes, outbuildings, and vehicles led to the seizure of up to 20 firearms, including assault rifles, rifles, and ammunition, all of which have been submitted as evidence in the ongoing criminal case.

Meanwhile, Kazakhstan’s National Security Committee (NSC) carried out operational and investigative activities in October across Astana, Almaty, and nine other regions.

Authorities seized a total of 40 weapons, including an infantry flamethrower, four Kalashnikov rifles, 12 handguns, 23 rifles, five grenades, and over 800 rounds of ammunition. Investigative measures remain ongoing in connection with the seizures.

Both the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs and Kazakhstan’s NSC emphasised the continuation of efforts to combat illegal arms trafficking. In Kazakhstan, further details are withheld in accordance with Article 201 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

By Khagan Isayev