Georgia: Gunman arrested and hostages freed following hostage situation in Tbilisi November 20 /update 1

Event

Georgian officials say they have arrested an unidentified gunman who was holding nine people hostage at a microfinance organization on Akaki Tsereteli Avenue in the capital Tbilisi on Friday evening, November 20. All nine hostages have been freed and there was no immediate suggestion that any of them had incurred injuries. Police set up a cordon around the building whilst negotiations and security operations were conducted. The motive of the assailant was not immediately clear. 

Those in the immediate vicinity should take care and follow the advice of local security authorities. A heightened security presence is to be anticipated in Tbilisi in the immediate term.  

Advice

Those in Tbilisi are advised to monitor developments, avoid the affected area, prepare for related disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.