Kazakhstan Launches Major Operation Against Criminal Groups

ASTANA — A significant law enforcement operation in Kazakhstan has resulted in over 70 individuals associated with criminal groups becoming defendants in cases, according to reports from the National Security Committee (KNB) as cited by KaztTAG.

On October 5, the KNB, in collaboration with the police and under the coordination of the Prosecutor General's Office, executed a coordinated special operation simultaneously in the Zhetysu, Zhambyl, and Turkestan regions. The operation successfully led to the apprehension of 72 members of various groups suspected of a range of criminal activities, including illegal possession of weapons and drugs, extortion, the facilitation of illegal migration routes, and the commission of other serious offenses.

The criminal groups were reportedly active in areas along the borders with China (specifically, the ICBC "Khorgos" region), Uzbekistan (at the "Zhibek Zholy" checkpoint), and Kyrgyzstan (near the "Kordai auto" checkpoint).

In the course of the operation, law enforcement authorities conducted searches that resulted in the seizure of firearms and ammunition, substantial sums of money, narcotics, and other significant material evidence. Investigations into the cases are currently underway, according to the KNB.

This operation marks a significant effort by Kazakh authorities to combat organized crime and maintain security along its borders. The apprehension of these individuals involved in various criminal activities underscores the commitment to addressing issues related to illegal arms possession, drug trafficking, extortion, and other serious crimes in the region.