Фото: pog.gov.ge
The Georgian Prosecutor’s Office charged the driver of a minibus carrying Belarusian tourists that was involved in a fatal traffic accident on Aug. 12.
The tragedy occurred on the 16th kilometer of the road to the mountain resort of Gomismta in Ozurgeti municipality. An investigation conducted by the Interior Ministry found that the driver was transporting foreign tourists without the appropriate category of driving license required to carry such a number of passengers. He failed to ensure safe operation of the minibus, causing the vehicle to leave the road, fall into a gorge and crash into a tree. Four people were killed in the accident and another 16 passengers were injured, including six minors.
The driver was detained. He was charged under Part 8 of Article 276 of Georgia’s Criminal Code for violating traffic safety rules by a person operating a vehicle, resulting in the deaths of more than two people. The article provides for up to 10 years in prison.
The prosecutor’s office has asked the court to remand the defendant in custody.
Following the accident, four of those injured have already been discharged from hospitals. The remaining patients are still under medical observation. The repatriation of the remains of the first two Belarusian victims is expected to be arranged soon. The remains of two other victims are planned to be sent to Belarus early next week.