(26 February 2026 | Source: Online publication "Polites News")
Information is circulating in the media about the possible detention in Almaty of Zhamalbek Bekdaulet — the nephew of the former akim of Zhambyl Region, Amalbek Tshanov. Publications link the possible detention to an investigation into an alleged scheme for supplying narcotic drugs from Thailand via international postal items.
WHAT HAPPENED
According to "Polites News", on 8 September 2025, at the "Zhetysu" customs post, during an inspection of a postal item from Thailand, a liquid substance was discovered, which an expert examination identified as cannabis extract. It is reported that the investigation is being conducted by the Department of Economic Investigations for the city of Almaty.
At the same time, as of the time of publication, official bodies had not released any press releases or other public confirmations of the detention, the procedural status of the individual, or the charges brought.
WHO IS MENTIONED IN THE PUBLICATIONS
Zhamalbek Bekdaulet is referred to in the circulated materials as the nephew of Amalbek Tshanov — a Kazakh statesman of the 1990s.
Tshanov has held various positions over the years, including akim of Shymkent, Minister of Construction, Housing and Utilities, and Territorial Development, as well as akim of Zhambyl Region. In 1991, he was a proxy for Nursultan Nazarbayev in the presidential elections, and in 1999, he was elected as a deputy of the Majilis of the Parliament of the second convocation.
WHAT IS KNOWN AT THIS POINT
Data on procedural court decisions, the filing of charges, or the imposition of a preventive measure are absent from official sources.
The FBRK reminds that, in accordance with the law, individuals are considered innocent until their guilt is established by a court verdict that has entered into legal force.