Former South Kazakhstan University Rector and Deputies Accused of Large-Scale Embezzlement

Former acting rector of South Kazakhstan University in Shymkent, Kairat Nurmanbetov, along with several of his deputies, has been charged with embezzling 256 million tenge, Orda.kz reports, citing the Agency for Financial Monitoring (FMA).

According to the agency, the case also involves the directors of the university’s financial and administrative departments, as well as representatives of contracting organizations.

The group is accused of signing fictitious contracts for repair work and procurement of goods for the university. The FMA stated that no work was actually carried out, no goods were delivered, and the funds were withdrawn in cash from the budget.

The suspects used the criminal proceeds to purchase six luxury vehicles (Mercedes Benz S-Class, Lexus LX570, and others) and a high-end cottage in central Shymkent, with a total value of 254 million tenge. These assets have been seized with the court’s approval,the FMA said. 

Four individuals are currently under house arrest, and the case has been forwarded to court.

Nurmanbetov’s arrest was first reported in September 2024. At the time, it was linked to an alleged bribe of 28 million tenge.

Original Author: Igor Ulitin