Law enforcement officers in Tbilisi detained 12 participants in small-scale protests over the past 24 hours for violating the new law banning road blockages, the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs reported.

“The Ministry of Internal Affairs detained 12 people in the past 24 hours for violating the rules on gatherings and demonstrations according to the Administrative Offenses Code,” the statement said.

Protesters continue to gather near the Parliament building on Rustaveli Avenue and, despite the small numbers, artificially block the roadway. Some demonstrators also cover their faces with masks, which is prohibited. The Ministry warned that repeated violations under the new law could lead to criminal charges.

On October 16, the Georgian Parliament amended the administrative and criminal codes. Under the new rules, a protester blocking a road while staying in a designated pedestrian zone faces up to 15 days’ detention. The same penalty applies to protesters hiding their faces with masks or carrying tear gas or other toxic substances. Non-compliance with police orders, combined with the presence of weapons or pyrotechnics, carries a 60-day detention. Repeat violations can result in up to one year of imprisonment. Authorities said the law primarily targets protesters who nightly block the central avenue despite the small size of their demonstrations.