Singer stabs four in Tbilisi restaurant row

Saba Samushia, a singer, stabbed four men during a fight which broke out in the Tbilisi-based Aga restaurant – the General Prosecutor’s Office reported on its website.

During an investigation it was found that on the night of 18 January Samushia got into an argument with guests in the restaurant located at Heroes’ Square in downtown Tbilisi. During the argument he stabbed one of the guests in their right leg. The latter was later operated on. Another guest was stabbed in their left leg. Two more people were also wounded. One of the victims is reported to be in critical condition.

“Samushia has been charged under Part 1, Article 117 (intentional infliction of grave bodily injuries), Part 3 Article 118 (intentional infliction of less grave bodily injuries) and Part 3 Article 239 (an act of hooliganism committed with a weapon) of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which provides for 4-7 years in prison,” said the Prosecutor’s Office.

According to early reports, the bloody incident was preceded by a verbal exchange between the parties. Samushia was arrested as he tried to flee the scene. The incident happened during a birthday party where Samushia was invited as a singer.

Tbilisi City Court has already sentenced Samushia to pre-trial detention.

Saba Samushia is a member of the David Kenchiashvili folk song ensemble. According to the Prosecutor’s Office, he was previously convicted for drug-related offences.