32 years since the April 9 tragedy

32 years ago, on April 9, 1989, a horrific tragedy unfolded in Tbilisi, then still the capital of Soviet Georgia. The Soviet Army dispersed a peaceful protest rally on Rustaveli Avenue. The punitive operation was led by General Rodionov.

Poisonous chemicals and firearms were used during the raid. There were also tanks and armored personnel carriers. The aggression of Russian tanks was met with thousands of protesters with bare hands.

Twenty-one people were killed in the incident, one of whom, was killed by a Russian soldiers, shortly after, for violating the curfew. Hundreds of protesters were injured in the raid. 
Exact data on how many people were injured and specifically what damage was done to their health is unknown. It was a great tragedy.