Former Head Of Georgia Water Company Detained

Ex- Tbilisi Water head Gegi Kelbakiani was often seen with Tbilisi Mayor Gegi Ugulava (pictured).

TBILISI -- The former head of the Tbilisi Water company and his business associate have been detained in the Georgian capital.

Archil Zhorzholiani, the lawyer for Gegi Kelbakiani and his business partner Archil Chogovadze, spoke to journalists on November 21.

He said his clients faced charges of receiving illegal income and money laundering through companies they own.

Kelbakiani was the director of Tbilisi Water, which provides the capital with drinking water.

Georgian media reports say Kelbakiani was often seen with Tbilisi Mayor Gegi Ugulava.

Ugulava's deputy, Shota Khizanishvili, was arrested last week after his offices and apartment were searched.

He and 12 Interior Ministry officials are charged with abuse of office and illegal deprivation of freedom.

With reporting by Apsny.ge