A civil activist has been detained in Taraz on suspicion of extorting money from a businessman in exchange for removing negative comments on social media. The alleged demand amounted to 5 million tenge, which became the basis for launching a pre-trial investigation.
WHAT PROMPTED THE POLICE COMPLAINT
According to the police department (PD) of the Zhambyl Region, a resident of Taraz filed a complaint with law enforcement authorities, reporting an incident of extortion. According to the complainant, the activist threatened to disseminate information that could affect his honour, dignity, and business reputation. The investigation alleges that he demanded 5 million tenge in exchange for refraining from publication.
Court documents state that pre-trial proceedings were initiated after the complaint was filed with the police.
HOW THE ARREST UNFOLDED
The police clarified that the suspect was caught red-handed while receiving money. According to the investigation, the money was handed over in exchange for ceasing pressure on the complainant and removing previously posted negative comments on social media.
WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT THOSE INVOLVED
According to the Telegram channel «HALYQSTAN», the complainant is a businessman identified as T., who owns several companies operating in the consulting and communication equipment repair sectors.
According to the source, he filed a complaint with the police back in February of this year, after which covert investigative actions were carried out against the suspect.
The suspect is identified as M., born in 1975. Documents note that he is officially unemployed. It is also reported that he has a previous conviction from 2000 under Part 2 of Article 345 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (“Violation of traffic rules or operation of vehicles by persons driving vehicles”).
WHAT CHARGES ARE BEING BROUGHT
A criminal case has been opened on charges of extortion. Under the applicable provision, the penalty carries a prison sentence of 5 to 10 years.
Information regarding the preventive measure and the suspect's position is not currently provided in the materials.