Czech Journalist Detained at Tbilisi Airport Amid Election Coverage

Czech journalist Ray Baseley was detained upon arrival in Georgia to cover a parliamentary election. Authorities provided no explanation for the refusal of entry. The Czech Foreign Ministry is seeking clarity on the detention, and Baseley is awaiting a flight back to Prague.

Czech journalist Ray Baseley was detained at Tbilisi's airport upon his arrival to cover Georgia's upcoming parliamentary election, authorities confirmed on Wednesday. Baseley, who identifies as a Czech-British freelance reporter, was refused entry without any explanation.

The embassy in Tbilisi has located him, with the consul personally visiting the detention center where Baseley is being held. He is reportedly fine and awaiting a flight to Prague. The Czech Foreign Ministry is pressing for specific reasons behind the detention.

Baseley's association with Czech news outlet Forum24 reported that Georgian authorities seized his phone and personal belongings, creating a communication blackout. The Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs has yet to comment on the incident.

(With inputs from agencies.)