Sherzat Polat Homicide Case: Investigation to Be Completed by Year's End

Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Sanjar Adilov explained what stage the investigation is at.

By the end of the year, we will receive all the expert reports and complete all investigative actions. 11 suspects in this criminal case are in custody. The final charges will be brought against them in agreement with the prosecutor. Then we will present the materials of the criminal case for review by the participants in the process, the deputy minister said.

Adilov also commented on the death of Sherzat's uncle, Nurganat Gaepbayev.

The preliminary cause is suicide. His body was found on the outskirts of Talgar on December 9. 

Gaepbayev was a key witness and was to give testimony in court.

A criminal case has been opened regarding the suicide. The preliminary results of the forensic examination have been made public. No signs of violent death were found. An investigation is currently underway. The law provides for two months for this, and if necessary, the period can be extended, Adilov added .

During the investigation into Nurganat's death, the Ministry of Internal Affairs has pledged to consider all versions, including those put forward by the relatives of the deceased. 

Regarding the correspondence between Gaepbayev and his relatives being made public despite the secrecy of the investigation, the deputy minister explained:

This correspondence was provided by relatives, that is, it was published with consent, and there were no legislative obstacles. This explains the circumstances that led to the suicide,
summed up Sanjar Adilov.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs assured they would act strictly according to the law. 

The investigation into the circumstances of Nurganat Gaepbayev's death, as well as the main processes in the high-profile case concerning Sherzat Polat's death, are under supervision.

Meanwhile, The Almaty Region Prosecutor's Office has issued a statement regarding liability for participating in unsanctioned assemblies.

We urge citizens to be responsible and not succumb. Participation in illegal protests may result in administrative arrest, substantial fines, and criminal prosecution (Article 488 of the Code of Administrative Offenses and Article 400 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan),the supervisory authority reports.

Original Authors: Dilnaz Mamyrova, Alina Pak