September 28, 2007 - 19:22 AMT
Rally being dispersed in Tbilisi
A mass rally is taking place in Tbilisi in support of former Defense Minister, leader of the Movement for United Georgia Irakli Okruashvili, who was arrested yesterday on accusation of corruption. The demonstrators blocked traffic at Rustaveli Avenue. A statement issued by the disgraced ex-minister was read for some 5 thousand people who gathered at the parliament building. Okruashvili thanked his supporters called "not to be afraid of the authorities."

Koki Guntsadze, one of the leaders of the Movement said they will demand resignation of the President and dismissal of parliament.

Meanwhile, policemen with batons are rushing towards Rustaveli Avenue. Several ambulances and fire engines have already arrived at the site, Lenta.ru reports.

Irakli Okruashvili, who went into opposition to President Mikhael Saakashvili, was detained in Tbilisi September 27. He is accused under 4 articles of the Georgian Penal Code: extortion, money laundering, abuse of authority and office negligence.