Georgian authorities have arrested Grigol Liluashvili, the former head of the country’s state security service, on charges of taking bribes to protect scam call centers that tricked victims worldwide. The arrest happened this week in Tbilisi, amid claims he pocketed about 1.4 million dollars through shady deals, sparking questions about corruption at the highest levels.
Details of the Arrest
Prosecutors detained Liluashvili after he showed up for questioning at their office. He told reporters outside that he had no idea what the case was about and left his fate to divine will. This move comes after months of investigations into fraud networks operating in Georgia.
The former spy chief led the security service from 2020 until April 2025. His arrest ties into a broader crackdown on corruption, with officials saying he abused his power for personal gain. Witnesses have come forward with stories that paint a picture of deep rooted issues in the system.
Court records show that a judge ordered him held in pre trial detention. This decision followed a closed door hearing, where the prosecution pushed for strict measures to prevent any interference with the ongoing probe.
Bribery Allegations Explained
Investigators claim Liluashvili accepted large sums to shield illegal operations. One key accusation involves a Turkish investor who allegedly paid him 1 million dollars. Another involves a local businessman handing over 1.5 million lari, the Georgian currency.
Prosecutors say these bribes were funneled through his relative, Sandro Liluashvili, who faces his own charges of fraud and money laundering. The money reportedly helped cover up activities that harmed thousands of people globally.
In total, the alleged bribes add up to around 1.4 million dollars. If proven, this could land him in prison for up to 15 years. The case highlights how officials might exploit their positions for quick cash.
Authorities have seized several properties linked to Liluashvili, including homes and apartments. This step aims to recover assets tied to the crimes and prevent any further hiding of wealth.
The Scam Call Center Network
Georgia has become a hub for scam call centers that target victims in over 50 countries, including the United States, India, and parts of Europe. These operations use fake stories to steal money, often pretending to be tech support or law enforcement.
One major center uncovered in Tbilisi employed 85 people and raked in an estimated 35.3 million dollars from more than 6,100 victims since May 2022. It sat just meters from the security service headquarters, raising suspicions of insider protection.
Prosecutors allege Liluashvili protected some of these centers in exchange for payments. While the government has raided dozens, many kept running under the radar.
Here are some common tactics used by these scam centers:
- Posing as government officials to demand fake fines.
- Offering bogus investment opportunities with high returns.
- Threatening victims with legal action unless they pay up.
- Using advanced scripts to sound convincing in multiple languages.
Political and Opposition Ties
The scandal has political angles, with claims that some call centers funded opposition media. Prosecutors suggest Liluashvili helped hide these links, possibly to influence public opinion or elections.
This arrest follows raids on homes of other big names, like a former prime minister and chief prosecutor. It points to a possible cleanup within the ruling Georgian Dream party.
Opposition groups have long accused the government of corruption. Now, this case might shift the spotlight, forcing more transparency in how security services operate.
Critics say the timing aligns with internal party shifts, especially after recent elections. Some see it as a way to silence dissent or consolidate power.
Court Proceedings and Next Steps
A Tbilisi court held a closed session to decide on Liluashvili’s detention. The judge set a pre trial hearing for February 16, 2026, giving both sides time to build their cases.
Prosecutors plan to present more evidence, including witness statements and financial records. Defense lawyers argue the charges are overblown and politically motivated.
| Key Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Liluashvili’s Appointment | 2020 | Becomes head of State Security Service. |
| Major Scam Center Exposed | 2025 | Journalists reveal Tbilisi operation near headquarters. |
| Raids on High-Profile Figures | October 2025 | Homes of former officials searched. |
| Arrest of Liluashvili | December 2025 | Detained on bribery charges. |
| Court Detention Order | December 2025 | Pre-trial detention approved. |
| Upcoming Hearing | February 2026 | Full case review scheduled. |
Global Impact of the Scams
These call centers have defrauded people across the globe, leading to losses in the tens of millions. Victims report ruined finances and emotional distress from the scams.
International agencies, like those in Russia and the EU, have busted related networks. For instance, Russian security forces recently shut down centers linked to Georgian figures, showing the cross border nature of the problem.
Georgia’s government vows to continue the fight against such fraud. This arrest could strengthen ties with global partners to track and stop these operations.
Experts warn that without strong action, scam hubs will keep popping up in places with weak oversight. The case underscores the need for better international cooperation on cyber fraud.
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