Merkur Town Homicide: Sentence Handed Down

Askar Tastandiyev, who killed a 30-year-old security guard at the Merkur Town residential complex in March 2024, has been sentenced in Almaty, Orda.kz reports.

The court handed down a 22-year prison sentence, according to lawyers representing the affected party. 

The prosecution had requested a 24-year sentence. The victim’s widow sought 100 million tenge in moral damages, but the court partially granted the claim — she will receive 20 million tenge.

Tastandiyev was convicted under Article 99 of the Criminal Code of the Republic, “Homicide with Particular Cruelty,” and Article 147, “Violation of the Privacy of Private Life.” His former partner filed the latter charge, which led to a closed trial, as the case included sensitive video materials.

Askar Tastandiyev is the son of Salamgazy Tastandiyev, a former deputy of the Supreme Council of the Republic of Kazakhstan (13th convocation) and former senior assistant to the prosecutor of the Taldykorgan region.

The homicide occurred on the night of March 29, 2024. Tastandiyev, who had a history of driving under the influence, reportedly had the gate blocked at his parents’ request to prevent him from leaving the complex drunk.

That night, 30-year-old security guard Nurbol may have followed those instructions.

Following a confrontation, Tastandiyev repeatedly ran over the guard with his car, then exited the vehicle and killed him. He later attempted to jump from the 14th floor but was detained by authorities.

Original Author: Alexandra Mokhireva