(23 January 2026 | Source: inform.kz)
A video recording has been released showing part of a fight between the head of the Department of Physical Culture and Sport of the Karaganda Region, Serik Sapiyev, and his deputy, Dauren Yesimkhanov. The video became public amid a police investigation that has already been launched, the details of which are not yet officially being disclosed.
WHAT THE VIDEO SHOWS
The video shows Serik Sapiyev entering Dauren Yesimkhanov's office holding a folder. A few seconds later, a woman runs out of the room.
Through the slightly open door, part of a physical altercation between the two men can be seen.
After this, Sapiyev leaves the office, without his jacket and the folder. Dauren Yesimkhanov locks the door from the inside and only opens it after Sapiyev returns accompanied by two men.
WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT THE INVESTIGATION
According to Kazinform News Agency, the Police Department of the Karaganda Region confirmed that a criminal case has been opened under the article on "Assault".
According to the department, the investigation was initiated following a statement from a 42-year-old resident of Karaganda. The police emphasised that all the circumstances of the incident are currently being established, and other information is not subject to disclosure in the interests of the investigation.
POSITION OF THE SPORTS DEPARTMENT
Journalists were unable to obtain comments from Serik Sapiyev or Dauren Yesimkhanov at the time of publication.
The press service of the Department of Physical Culture and Sport of the Karaganda Region reported that the incident is not being commented on due to the ongoing investigation. They also denied information about the hospitalisation of any of the management, stating that both officials are at their workplaces.
BACKGROUND
Serik Sapiyev is the 2012 Olympic champion, a two-time world champion and a Honoured Master of Sport of the Republic of Kazakhstan. He currently heads the Department of Physical Culture and Sport of the Karaganda Region.
Dauren Yesimkhanov holds the position of deputy head of the department. He is a medalist of Asian and World Championships in sambo and combat sambo, a silver medalist of the World Games, and a world champion in jiu-jitsu.