TBILISI, DFWatch–Iran’s consul in Georgia Ahmad-Reza Arzjani says the suspect in murder of a 16-year-old girl in Batumi Juy 22 has been in Turkey for the last two years.

Mariam Kochalidze, 16, was murdered near the beach in Batumi, a Black Sea holiday resort and one of the most important tourist destinations in Georgia. The Interior Ministry identified a 28-year old Iranian man as suspect. The man left Georgia for Turkey the day of the murder.

Arzjani told Adjara TV that Iran condemns the murder and expresses its readiness to assist Georgian police in the case and to provide information about the suspect.

“We have already sent important information to the head of Adjara’s government and deputy head of Adjara police,” he said, adding that control at the borders has been strengthened.

The consul expressed hope that the truth will soon be found and that the case will not affect bilateral relations of Iran and Georgia.