In the Zhambyl region, a former chief physician of a district hospital has been detained on suspicion of possible embezzlement of budget funds. The amount, according to preliminary data, exceeds 32 million tenge.
WHAT HE IS SUSPECTED OF
According to ORDA, Meirambek Darmenov, who held the position of chief physician at the Merke District Hospital, has been detained. He is currently in a pre-trial detention centre in the city of Taraz. He is suspected of committing a crime under Part 4 of Article 189 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan (“Misappropriation or embezzlement of entrusted property”).
The investigation suggests that the hospital accrued multi-million tenge debts. It is noted that these may have arisen due to excessive transfers of budget funds in 2023.
The total amount exceeds 32 million tenge, of which around 22 million tenge, according to the investigation, may have been transferred to the chief physician's accounts.
WHAT PENALTY IS PRESCRIBED
If guilt is proven in court, the suspect could face up to 12 years in prison with confiscation of property. Additionally, a lifelong ban from holding certain positions may be imposed.