Kazakhstan: Deputy Prosecutor General Comments on Vkontakte Russian Military Recruitment Ads

The Deputy Prosecutor General commented on advertisements discovered on the VKontakte social network that promote enlistment in the Russian army. The ad was recently highlighted by the editorial team at Orda.kz.

Deputy Prosecutor General Galymzhan Koigeldiyev, speaking in the corridors of the Senate, stated that the relevant authorities are investigating reports about Kazakhstan's citizens being recruited to fight in Ukraine.

The specific ad on VKontakte has not been examined.

As soon as information of a certain nature appears, it is checked, and measures are taken. I have not personally seen this on social networks, but let's look into it. We constantly monitor social networks. As soon as we see something illegal, we immediately take measures,
said Koigeldiyev. 

Journalists asked why the ad was still online:

I'm saying, let's look into it.

Koigeldiyev was also asked about reports that citizens are being deceived into traveling to Russia under the pretense of employment, only to be detained and coerced into signing contracts to fight in Ukraine.

Let's look into it. Give us time, we will definitely investigate this matter. Protecting the rights of our citizens who are abroad is the capacity of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. I am sure that they know about this situation and are now planning certain measures. But we, as a law enforcement agency, are not going to stand aside — if need be, we will take all necessary measures,
the deputy prosecutor general said. 

He added that the Prosecutor General's Office would take official action once the information is confirmed and formal complaints are received.

Original Author: Zhadra Zhulmukhametova