(5 February 2026 | Source: Polisia.kz)
The Minister of Internal Affairs Yerzhan Sadenov held an on-site meeting at the Shymkent Police Department, introduced the new head, and outlined key tasks amid concerns about the crime situation in the city. Following the visit, personnel decisions were made and a comprehensive inspection of the work of the units has begun.
NEW HEAD OF DEPARTMENT AND KEY TASKS
The Minister introduced the new head of the Shymkent Police Department to the staff — Mukhtar Kozhaev, who previously headed the Investigative Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. According to Sadenov, the Major General has significant managerial and investigative experience, having progressed from investigator to head of a department within the central apparatus of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, reports Polisia.kz.
"Where there is no discipline, there is no result, no trust, and authority crumbles. For every violation, there will be personal, named responsibility for managers at all levels and for those who have betrayed their professional duty," the Minister emphasised.
PERSONNEL DECISIONS AND OFFICIAL INSPECTION
During the meeting, systemic shortcomings in police work were discussed. Due to improper performance of duties, the head of the organised crime unit (UOCU) and the head of one of its departments were dismissed from their posts.
On the Minister's instruction, a comprehensive inspection of the city's police units has begun, involving representatives of key services from the central apparatus. The commission has been tasked with identifying the causes of the violations and submitting proposals for their elimination.
CONTROL OVER THE INVESTIGATION OF HIGH-PROFILE CRIMES
Special attention was paid to the investigation of the murder of Nuray Serikbay. The Minister ordered the investigative and operational units to ensure a thorough and objective investigation, noting that all those responsible must receive their deserved punishment.
Also on the agenda was the development of a unified response algorithm for stalking, training investigators in the practice of investigating such crimes, and eliminating a formal approach to citizen appeals.
"Any signals of pressure, threats, and harassment must be identified in a timely manner, not after tragic consequences," added Sadenov.
STRENGTHENING SECURITY AND PREVENTION MEASURES
The Minister focused on strengthening measures to ensure public safety, preventing offences and reducing road traffic accidents. Tasks were set for active work with individuals from risk groups, monitoring compliance with traffic rules (TR), implementing modern digital solutions, and increasing the accountability of managers for the final result.
END OF THE TRIP AND THE INSTITUTION OF MENTORING
At the conclusion of the working visit, the Minister met with veterans of the internal affairs bodies, noting the importance of mentoring in shaping the professional responsibility of young officers and strengthening the rule of law.