In a significant development, the State Security Service of Georgia (SSG) announced on Monday that it had intercepted several units of special explosive devices and a substantial amount of explosive material. The seizure was allegedly made during the transportation of the explosives from the Ukrainian city of Odesa to Russia.

During a search of a vehicle, experts from the SSG's Counter-Terrorism Centre discovered two electric car batteries that had been repurposed as containers. Upon further investigation, it was revealed that these batteries concealed six "special explosive devices." Thankfully, the bomb squad safely removed these devices and sent them for examination. It was later discovered that mock-ups had been placed inside the containers to monitor any undercover activities related to the package.

The seized explosive devices were found to contain 14 kilograms of C-4 military-grade plastic explosive, capable of being activated by electric detonators and special timers. Furthermore, six detonators and six special keys were also discovered, with each explosive device housed in a separate box. The SSG explained that the electronic timers had been pre-programmed for activation.

According to the SSG, the explosives and devices originated from Odesa and traveled through Romania, Bulgaria, and Turkey before arriving in Georgia on January 19th. The investigation revealed that seven Georgian citizens, three Ukrainian nationals, and two Armenian citizens were involved in the smuggling and transportation of the devices within Georgia. The alleged organizer of the scheme was identified as Andrey Sharashidze, a Ukrainian citizen of Georgian origin and former MP candidate from the pro-EU 'Servant of the People' party. It should be noted that some individuals involved may not have been aware of the concealed devices within the car batteries.

The SSG's inquiry aims to determine whether the seized devices were intended for use within Georgia or if they were being transported to Russia. The agency raised suspicions that the involvement of Georgian citizens and the use of Georgian territory could have been orchestrated to shift blame for potential terrorist acts onto Georgia itself, whether within its borders or abroad.

The SSG revealed that the investigation is currently centered around charges of illegal purchase and storage of explosive substances and devices, which can carry a penalty of three to six years of imprisonment. However, they noted that additional charges related to the preparation of terrorist acts could be added, which could result in an elevated penalty of 10 to 15 years in prison.

The SSG's seizure of these explosive devices highlights the ongoing efforts to maintain security in the region and prevent potential terrorist acts. The investigation into this incident is expected to shed light on the intricate network involved in the smuggling and transportation of illicit materials.