Recently, social media has seen a proliferation of posts justifying the actions of Arman Dzhumagel'diyev (Wild Arman). The authors portray him as a victim of circumstances and almost a hero of the January events. However, the facts uncovered by the investigation and the court suggest otherwise.
According to them, Wild Arman is not a champion of justice, but a figure in a case concerning organised crime and the tragic events of Qantar. Previously, the FBRK editorial team published CCTV footage from the Kazakhstan Hotel, which shows Dzhumagel'diyev's true actions: violence against peaceful citizens.
This episode is just one part of his group's crimes. Kidnapping passers-by, stealing weapons, creating chaos — all of this proves that Wild Arman's actions were contrary to the interests of society.
The investigation established: his return to Kazakhstan on the eve of the January events was no coincidence. His actions were part of a plan to destabilise the situation in the country. The organised criminal group of 'Wild Arman' acted in the interests of those who planned to undermine the constitutional order.
Wild Arman's reputation characterises him as a cruel and aggressive man, ready to do anything to achieve his goals. As early as 2010, in the correctional facility EC 166/25 (Granitny settlement near Kokshetau) under Dzhumagel'diyev's leadership, one of the most brutal prison riots occurred: two people died, and more than 80 were injured.
Despite the arrest of the leader and key members of the organised criminal group, law enforcement agencies continue to uncover traces of the gang's activity. In August, the police and the National Security Committee, with the assistance of the Prosecutor General's Office, detained 15 people in Almaty and Shymkent suspected of links with Dzhumagel'diyev's group.
The arrests, the seizure of weapons and other evidence confirm: the criminal group continued to operate underground. This shows how dangerous people like Arman Dzhumagel'diyev are, even while in custody.
Those who heroise Wild Arman are likely those who deliberately distort the facts or pursue mercenary goals. Society must critically evaluate any such information and not succumb to manipulation. Only an objective investigation and a fair trial can help prevent the tragedy from recurring.