The accused in the murder case of student Nuray Serikbai has been deemed sane according to the results of a forensic psychiatric examination. Investigative actions in the case are nearing completion.
WHAT THE MINISTRY OF INTERIOR REPORTED
According to Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Sanzhar Adilov, the forensic psychiatric examination was ordered by the investigator, and its results have already been received.
"The accused will face the law as a sane individual," Adilov stated on the sidelines of the Senate.
This means that, according to the experts' conclusion, he is capable of understanding his actions and bearing responsibility within the framework of criminal proceedings.
WHERE THE ACCUSED IS NOW
He was previously sent for compulsory treatment. He is currently in a secure specialised medical facility.
After the treatment is completed, he will be transferred back to a pre-trial detention centre (SIZO).
HOW EVENTS UNFOLDED
The tragedy occurred on 11 January 2026 in Shymkent. Nuray Serikbai suffered fatal stab wounds on the street from a person who had been pursuing her. The suspect — a 28-year-old man — was arrested two days later and placed in a pre-trial detention centre.
The situation sparked public outcry. On 20 January 2026, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev ordered an assessment of the actions of the Shymkent police. Following this, staffing decisions were made.
Later, the case was reclassified under the article "Murder committed with extreme cruelty". The penalty provides for 15 to 20 years of imprisonment or life imprisonment.
Earlier, it was reported that the accused had been placed in a specialised facility in Talgar. At the time, the victim's family expressed concerns that he might avoid criminal liability if declared mentally incapacitated.