WW1-Era Chemical Agent May Have Been Used against Georgian Protesters, BBC Investigation Finds
Tbilisi, Georgia – A chemical substance deployed against protesters in Georgia might potentially be a toxic compound originally developed for warfare during World War One, a BBC investigation has revealed. The findings center on an inventory document from the Georgian Special Tasks Department, dated December 2019, and analysis of unidentified chemicals used in water cannons during protests.
According to laboratory analysis conducted by a chemical expert who wished to remain anonymous, the substance used was significantly more potent than common riot control agents like CS gas. “I cannot name an example or compare it with anything [else],” the expert stated, adding it was “probably 10 times” stronger than conventional agents. He further described the chemical’s lasting effects, stating, “For example, if you spill this chemical on the ground, you won’t be able to stay in that area for the next two to three days, even if you wash it off with water.”
The BBC obtained a copy of the special Tasks Department’s inventory, which listed two chemicals: “Chemical liquid UN1710” and “Chemical powder UN3439,” alongside mixing instructions. A former high-ranking riot police officer, who verified the document’s authenticity, identified these as the likely components added to the water cannons.
Investigators determined that UN1710 refers to trichloroethylene (TCE), a solvent used to dissolve other chemicals in water. Identifying UN3439 proved more challenging, as it is a broad classification encompassing numerous hazardous industrial chemicals. However, the investigation pinpointed bromobenzyl cyanide – also known as camite – as the only chemical within that classification historically used as a riot-control agent. Camite was originally developed by the Allies during the first world War.
To assess the likelihood of camite being the deployed agent,the BBC consulted Professor Christopher Holstege,a leading toxicology and chemical weapons expert,presenting him with their findings. The investigation is ongoing, and the Georgian government has not yet commented on the specific allegations.
