The Public Defender’s office is studying the INFO 9 journalist Ekaterine Dugladze’s case. The statement was posted on the public defender’s official Facebook page.

According to INFO 9 Ekaterine Dugladze’s has been persecuted by a group of individuals. Seven people carrying video cameras keep accompanying her and posing provocative questions. “Ekaterine Dugladze has got to work under heavy psychological pressure,” reads the statement released by INFO 9.

The representatives of the Public Defender’s Office, ombudsman said, on July 4, 2012 got in touch with the INFO 9 producer Manana Eliashvili.

“The Public Defender of Georgia together with his Office cooperates with the agency. As of today relevant responses have been provided to all of the cases of illegal interference into the professional activities of journalists,” reads the statement.

Regional information centers too demand the launch of the investigation into the case. They applied to the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia on July 5.

Kakheti, Mtskheta-Mtianeti, Adjara, Samegrelo-Upper Svaneti and Shida Kartli-based information centers call upon the Public Defender of Georgia, as well as human rights defender NGOs to respond to the aforementioned cases. They also urge Imereti Governor’s administration and Zestaponi local self-government management to enable journalists freely enter and work in the local municipality building.