Prime Minister Zurab Nogaideli downplayed on Sunday a statement made by Emzar Kvitsiani, chief of a paramilitary group Monadire (the Hunter) based in Kodori gorge, who warned on July 22 that his militiamen will defy the country’s central authorities.

“This person does not represent the local population so any disobedience is ruled out,” PM Nogaideli told reporters.

“If he continues remaining beyond the law he will be arrested as criminal,” MP Nika Rurua, deputy chairman of the parliamentary committee for defense and security, said on July 23.

“Kvitsiani is a threat, but at the same times we should not overestimate this threat,” MP Giga Bokeria said.