WW1-Era Chemical Compound Sprayed on Georgian Protesters, BBC Investigation Finds
TBILISI, GEORGIA – Evidence suggests Georgian police deployed a riot control agent containing CS gas – a chemical compound originally developed for use in World War One – against protesters in Tbilisi, perhaps violating international human rights law, a BBC News investigation has revealed. The findings raise serious concerns about the safety and regulation of less-lethal weapons used in suppressing demonstrations in the country.
The investigation, prompted by reports of unusually severe symptoms experienced by protesters, identified the presence of CS gas in samples taken after police used water cannon against crowds demonstrating against controversial legislation perceived as pro-Russian. Alice Edwards, a UN Special Rapporteur on torture, stated that “populations should never be subjected to experiments,” adding that the use of such substances could constitute torture or ill-treatment if effects are not temporary.
For almost a year,Tbilisi has been the site of near-nightly protests demanding the resignation of the government,which demonstrators accuse of electoral fraud,aligning with Russian interests,and enacting restrictive laws targeting civil society. While the protests have diminished in size following increased penalties for participation,they continue to occur with frequency.
The BBC’s analysis of water cannon spray samples, conducted by experts at King’s College London, confirmed the presence of 2-chlorobenzalmalononitrile – commonly known as CS gas. Protesters reported symptoms far exceeding those typically associated with standard riot control agents,including prolonged skin blistering,respiratory issues,and neurological effects. International law stipulates that any effects from riot control measures should be temporary.
Georgia‘s authorities dismissed the findings as “deeply frivolous” and “absurd,” asserting that law enforcement acted “within the bounds of the law and constitution” when responding to what they characterized as “illegal actions of brutal criminals.” The government maintains that recent legislative changes are in the best interests of “public welfare” and denies any pro-Russian alignment.
The UN’s Edwards has called for investigations into all cases, including potential violations of torture conventions. The BBC reports that the Georgian government has not responded to specific questions regarding the composition of the water cannon spray or its potential long-term health effects.the investigation highlights a broader lack of regulation surrounding the use of chemicals in riot control measures globally, raising questions about accountability and the protection of fundamental human rights during protests.
