Georgian police detain 23 over presidential palace attack

Georgian authorities have arrested 23 people in connection with the recent storming of the presidential palace, including several organisers and activist Nana Sandler. 

The investigation covers multiple charges, including damage or destruction of property, seizure or blockage of strategic facilities, organisation or participation in group violence, and calls for the violent overthrow of Georgia’s constitutional order or government, Caliber.Az reports via Georgian media.

Police clarified that five of the detainees are identified as organisers, while the remaining 18 are civilian activists.

The storming attempt occurred on October 4, 2025, during boycotted municipal elections, capping months of anti-government protests against the ruling Georgian Dream (GD) party's pivot toward Russia and away from EU integration.

Around 20,000 protesters rallied in Tbilisi, led by figures like opera singer Paata Burchuladze, who read a declaration calling for a "peaceful power transfer" from GD founder Bidzina Ivanishvili. The rally turned violent as crowds tried to breach the Orbeliani Palace; police responded with water cannons, tear gas, and pepper spray, injuring dozens.

By Khagan Isayev