Fine imposed on Turkish vessel arrested in Georgia with Azerbaijanis on board

Criminal case has been launched. The crew members are accused of violating the customs legislation and smuggling goods to the occupied territories of Georgia. United Transport Administration of Georgia said the ship had illegally crossed the border several times. According to the local legislation, if the accusations are proved, Buket ship will be confiscated and put up to auction.

Total of 13 of the crew members are Turkish citizens, 4 Azerbaijanis. Consul of Azerbaijani embassy in Georgia Farhad Mammadov saID as soon as Azerbaijan’s diplomatic representation received information, they appealed to Poti regional department of Georgian Border Police. They confirmed that there are four Azerbaijanis on board the ship.

“Criminal case has already been launched against the captain of the ship. He is not Azerbaijani. The Azerbaijanis have not faced any charges,” he said.

/APA/