Georgian Regulator Fines Russian Operator for Unlicensed Operations

­Georgia's telecoms regulator, the Georgian National Communications Commission imposed fine of GEL 1 million (US$590,000) on the Russia's MegaFon for allegedly carrying out out unlicensed operations in South Ossetia and other areas of Georgia's sovereign territory.

Last year the Georgian National Communications Commission twice imposed fine on MegaFon for unlicensed activities on the occupied territories of Georgia.

Previously, Megafon only covered part of the former Autonomous Republic of South Ossetia, namely, Tskhinvali and Java regions. In August of 2008, during the Russian intervention on Georgian territory, the company apparently expanded the coverage area and exceeded the conflict zone to include the regions of Gori and Kareli.

The regulator has previously claimed that as a result of these activities, Megafon caused technical problems to Magticom and Geocell, both licensed companies operating in Georgia.

Posted to the site on 8th September 2009