US Treasury sanctions Georgian officials for human rights abuse

By Ovunc Kutlu

ISTANBUL (AA) - The US Treasury Department announced Monday that it imposed sanctions on Georgian officials and extremists for human rights abuse.

In a statement, the department said it designated two Georgian government officials associated with crackdowns on protestors and political opponents.

It also designated two private Georgian citizens who are responsible for suppressing the exercise of the freedom of peaceful assembly of Georgians, it added.

"Today’s action underscores our concern about the consequences of anti-democratic actions in Georgia and efforts by key individuals to use violence and intimidation to achieve their aims," Acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Bradley T. Smith said in a statement.

"The United States remains committed to holding accountable those who seek to undermine the rights of the Georgian people," he added.