A video has circulated online from the temporary detention facility (TDF) in the Almaty region. The footage shows suspects in the murder of Sherzat Polat from Talgar celebrating a birthday.
In the video, the detainees play music using the voice assistant 'Alisa', blow out candles on a cake, drink, and dance. Additionally, at least two mobile phones are visible in the frame.
Meanwhile, the regional police department has commented on the information.
"A comprehensive investigation is being conducted into the distribution of the video from the TDF, which shows one of the detainees celebrating a birthday. All those found guilty, including management, will be held strictly accountable. The progress of the investigation is under special control. Measures have been taken to eliminate the causes and conditions that contributed to this violation", the statement reads.
To recall, on 4 October, a mass brawl occurred near a shop in Talgar, during which 16-year-old Sherzat Polat died from a stab wound, and two other people sustained bodily injuries.
On the night of 12 October, the house of the deceased teenager's family burned down. Immediately after this incident, law enforcement set up a task force, and the family was placed under protection. A canister and gloves were found at the site of the arson. The Ministry of Internal Affairs reported that 11 people are suspects in the case of Sherzat's murder.
In December, the body of the uncle of the murdered Sherzat Polat was found on the outskirts of Talgar. It was reported that he had died by suicide through hanging.
Later, during the funeral, Sherzat's father - Bolat Karzhaubai - was detained. Police stated that an incident involving him occurred that 'threatened public order and the safety of others'. After serving a 15-day administrative arrest sentence, Karzhaubai was released.