In Astana, the acting head of RSE "Kazarnaulyeksport (Kazspetsexport)" Arshhat Ayaganov was convicted of abuse of office in the supply of armoured vehicles.
According to media reports, Ayaganov entered into a contract with LLP "Astana MPR Project" for the supply of 23 "COBRA II" armoured vehicles to the National Guard, at a total cost of more than 12.3 billion tenge.
In 2023, equipment worth more than 8.1 billion tenge was delivered to Kazakhstan. The vehicles were placed in the free economic zone (FEZ) "Astana – new city" for fitting out with communication equipment and weaponry.
In turn, experts from the Supreme Audit Chamber (SAC) identified a risk of budget losses due to the exemption of supplies through the FEZ from fiscal charges. Despite the auditors' warning, Ayaganov transferred nearly 2.8 billion tenge to the supplier to pay customs duties and taxes.
The defendant did not admit guilt, claiming he was unaware of the status of LLP "Astana MPR Project" as a participant in the FEZ.
Ultimately, the court sentenced Ayaganov to 4 years and 8 months in prison with an obligation to compensate the state for 2.8 billion tenge.
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For reference: RSE "Kazarnaulyeksport" of the Ministry of Industry and Infrastructural Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan supplies the Armed Forces and other military formations of the country, and deals with the import and export of weapons, military equipment and property.
It will be recalled that Ayaganov's detention was reported in February 2024. In November 2023, the general director of "Kazspetsexport" Arman Ramazanov and the director of the import department Azat Kudabayev were detained on charges of embezzling about 1 billion tenge during the purchase of military goods.
Earlier, the FBRK editorial team also reported that "Kazspetsexport" held tenders for specialised equipment and machinery, including bulletproof vests, demolition kits and MiG aircraft.