KNB Releases Footage of Transport Minister's Detention

The National Security Committee’s anti-corruption service has detained Vice Minister of Transport Satzhan Ablaliyev on suspicion of accepting a $78,000 bribe in exchange for shielding companies overseeing road construction projects, Orda.kz reports.

According to media reports, the funds were allegedly used to pay for his son’s education and housing in the UK. A court has already approved his arrest.

The KNB released footage of Ablaliyev’s detention. The video shows agents approaching him unexpectedly on the street — he’s walking with headphones on, unaware. It also includes scenes of bundles of cash — stacks of U.S. dollars stuffed into a vase, spread across tables and carpets, alongside a suitcase with gold detailing.

Ablaliyev, a PhD in technical sciences and recipient of the "Qurmet" order and several state medals, has worked in the transport sector since 2004. He previously served as deputy akim of North Kazakhstan Region and returned to the Ministry as Vice Minister in October 2023. His initiatives include overhauling 12,000 km of roads, launching the KazRAP road assessment program, simplifying transit with Türkiye, and modernizing border checkpoints.

Notably, his arrest came just days before Kazakhstan’s national Transport Workers Day.

Original Author: Artyom Volkov