12 Indian nationals found dead at Georgia’s mountain resort

As many as 12 Indian nationals were found dead in Georgia’s mountain resort of Gudauri, the Indian mission said in a statement.

"Mission has just learned about the death of 12 Indian nationals in Gudauri, Georgia. Deepest condolences to the bereaved families. Mission is in touch with the local authorities to get details of the Indian nationals who lost their lives. All possible assistance will be given," the Mission said.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Georgia stated that no sign of injury or violence was found during the initial investigation.
According to local media reports citing police, the victims died due to carbon monoxide poisoning, who used to work at an Indian restaurant ‘Haveli’ located in Gudauri, a municipality in Georgia.

While the Indian mission said that all employees were Indian nationals, Georgia's internal affairs ministry statement said 11 victims were foreigners while one victim was a citizen.

The bodies of all victims, employees in the same Indian restaurant, were found in bedrooms on the second floor of the facility, the statement said.

An investigation has been launched under Article 116 of the Criminal Code of Georgia, which implies negligent manslaughter.
According to a preliminary investigation, a power generator was placed in a closed indoor area near the bedrooms, after the power supply was cut off on Dec 13.

A forensic medical examination has been initiated to determine the exact cause of death.

Investigations are actively ongoing, with forensic-criminalistics at the scene and interviews of individuals connected to the case being conducted.