
Georgia
Chinese national accused of recruiting 56 Georgians into pyramid scheme
The charges were brought in absentia.

The charges were brought in absentia.

The defendants face up to 12 years in prison.

Aleko Elisashvili faces a long prison term, with the ruling party using the case to launch fresh criticism at the EU.

Giorgi Gakharia, who is currently abroad, said he is being politically persecuted.

Giorgi Gakharia, now an opposition leader, has been outside Georgia since summer, when the investigation was first announced.

Vladimer Stepanian faces up to 12 years in prison.
Nino Datashvili was detained in June after she was accused of assaulting a court bailiff.