Georgia: Authorities evacuate several shopping centers in Batumi as of late Jan. 21

Authorities have issued evacuation orders for several shopping centers in Batumi late Jan. 21 due to unconfirmed reports of suspicious packages at the facilities. The impacted locations include the Batumi Mall, Batumi Plaza, Grand Mall, and MetroCity shopping centers. Officials will likely provide updates over the coming hours.

Officials will almost certainly maintain a heightened security presence in the affected areas until emergency crews give the all-clear. Authorities may impose other security restrictions, including road closures, depending on the severity of the perceived threats. Transport and business disruptions are likely in the affected areas for the duration of the emergency response.