The State Committee for National Security of Kyrgyzstan has reported that a citizen of Kazakhstan, Kamalutin Khalikov, is being sought in connection with a case of financing the activities of an organised criminal group linked to the so-called 'thief in law' Kamchybek Asanbek (Kamchi Kolbayev).
According to the press service of the agency, Khalikov, who is the president of the Karaganda region boxing federation and a businessman in the construction sector, maintained contact with Asanbek. He is accused of involvement in the legalisation of proceeds obtained through criminal means.
The investigation claims that Khalikov, knowing of Asanbek's multiple convictions for serious crimes, including murder and kidnapping, collaborated with him in order to obtain patronage and support in business. Meetings between Khalikov and Asanbek are also reported to have taken place at the 'Bars' recreation centre in the Issyk-Kul region.
The Oktyabrsky District Court of Bishkek has selected, in absentia, a preventive measure for Khalikov in the form of remand in custody and has placed him on the wanted list.
For context, Kamchi Kolbayev was eliminated during a special operation in October 2023. According to the State Committee for National Security of the Kyrgyz Republic, Kolbayev offered armed resistance during his arrest, after which he was killed by security forces.