Escalating tensions on Rustaveli Avenue prompted police to deploy water jets against demonstrators late on December 3, 2024. The confrontation followed the protesters’ use of pyrotechnics and lasers, marking a sharp turn in the six-day-long unrest in Tbilisi.
Police and Protester Clashes
The rally, centered on Rustaveli Avenue, saw heightened measures from law enforcement, including the deployment of Special Forces. Key developments included:
- Police Actions:
- Officers used water cannons to disperse protesters as the situation grew more volatile.
- Cordons were established at strategic locations, including April 9 Street and Chichinadze Street, to control movement.
- Protesters’ Tactics:
- Demonstrators used pyrotechnics and high-powered lasers, creating chaotic scenes in the heart of Tbilisi.
This standoff between protesters and law enforcement highlights the growing volatility of the demonstrations.
Freedom Square on High Alert
The Ministry of Internal Affairs has bolstered its presence around Freedom Square, a critical juncture in the capital. The increased security measures reflect fears of the protests spreading beyond Rustaveli Avenue and potentially sparking wider unrest.
Special Forces were also seen mobilizing inside the Parliament building, signaling authorities’ concerns over potential breaches or heightened risks to government properties.
Growing Unrest Amid Broader Discontent
The protests, which have persisted for nearly a week, reflect simmering public frustration. While specifics of the grievances remain unclear in the government’s official statements, the escalation underscores deeper societal divisions.
Observers note that the protesters’ use of pyrotechnics and lasers is a stark indicator of their determination. The police response, involving water jets and a heavy security presence, has raised concerns about potential human rights violations.
What’s Next?
The deployment of water cannons often marks a tipping point in civil unrest. With demonstrators showing no signs of backing down, questions loom over how the government plans to de-escalate the situation.
While law enforcement efforts aim to restore order, critics argue that dialogue with demonstrators might offer a more sustainable solution. Whether authorities choose to engage or intensify their crackdown will likely shape the protests’ trajectory in the coming days.
