No explosive substance or device was found in the shopping centers or educational institutions in Batumi. Such a statement was released by the State Security Service of Georgia [SSSG].

“On January 21, the counter-terrorist units of the SSSG and the Ministry of Internal Affairs implemented special measures in Batumi after a bomb threat was received about various locations in the city.

The calls and messages were received from outside the country, using a mobile phone number belonging to a minor citizen of Georgia. An investigation is underway into a criminal case of false reporting of terrorism.

Within the framework of the ongoing operational and investigative measures, in order to identify the sender of the messages, the agencies of partner countries have been notified for assistance.

On December 30, 2023 and January 17, 2024, false reports about a terrorist attack on “Galleria Tbilisi” were also received from abroad and are related to international online games involving minors from different countries, including Georgia.

The initiators of the mentioned messages have been identified as a specific group of persons abroad. Appropriate special measures are being taken in connection with the fact.

The case is being investigated by the Counter-Terrorist Center of the State Security Service”, - reads the statement of the SSSG.