Wave of Searches and Detentions Hits Kyrgyz Politics Amid “Mass Riots” Case

On Saturday, November 22, Kyrgyzstan saw a series of searches, detentions, and interrogations targeting several politicians, their relatives, and media figures, Orda.kz reports.

All operations were carried out under Article 278 of the Kyrgyz Criminal Code (“Mass Riots”).

The scale, the number of individuals involved, and the inclusion of family members in the interrogations triggered broad public concern, according to Kaktus.media.

Detention of Temirlan Sultanbekov

The MIA announced investigative actions against politician Temirlan Sultanbekov, suspected of calling for a change of power through mass unrest.

A criminal case under Article 278 was opened.

Sultanbekov was taken to the investigative service after his home was searched. The MIA released hidden-camera footage showing Sultanbekov, his driver, and an unidentified elderly man discussing a change of government.

Interrogation of Atambayev’s Son

Kadyrbek Atambayev, son of former president Almazbek Atambayev, was also brought in for questioning.

Former First Lady Raisa Atambayeva was present during the investigative actions. According to her daughter, Aliya Shagieva, the search at the family apartment began at 6 a.m.

Afterward, both Raisa and Kadyrbek were taken away. Shagieva called the events political persecution and a violation of rights. Raisa Atambayeva was later released.

Search at Former MP Shailoobek Atazov’s Home

Police also carried out searches at the home of ex-MP Shailoobek Atazov.

The MIA confirmed investigative operations were underway.

Detention of Former Anti-Corruption Chief

In Kadji-Sai, officers detained Syimyk Zhapykeev, former head of the State Service for Combating Economic Crimes, and transported him to Bishkek for questioning in the same case.

His connection to Sultanbekov or Atambayev remains unclear. He was later released; his testimony has not been disclosed.

Search at Former MP Kubanychbek Kadyrov’s Residence

Security forces arrived at his home pretending to be neighbors, then conducted a search.

Kadyrov is also accused of inciting unrest. He was subsequently detained.

Search Involving Journalist Dmitry Lozhnikov

Former April TV channel director Dmitry Lozhnikov reported that a search was carried out at his ex-wife’s apartment, where their children live.

He insists he has no links to Sultanbekov or Atambayev:

I’ve been blocking their contacts for over a year now. I’m deeply indifferent to these people. I don’t do coups — I do journalism.

Lozhnikov’s ex-wife was taken in for questioning and later released.

Search at Adakhan Madumarov’s Home

Madumarov’s Telegram channel reported a search of his residence.

Officers seized his safe, cameras, laptops, phones, and other personal items. Madumarov, along with his son and wife, was detained and taken to an undisclosed location.

He was released that evening.

Ten People Detained So Far

Temirlan Sultanbekov, Kadyrbek Atambayev, and Shailoobek Atazov have been placed in a temporary detention facility. The Pervomaisky District Court will soon determine their pre-trial measures. Also detained are former presidential bodyguard Damir Musakeyev and Social Democrats member Ermek Ermatov.

Officials report 10 detainees, including politicians, former MPs, and ex-security officials. Authorities say the group was planning mass unrest after the parliamentary elections. Seized materials include weapons, ammunition, grenades, $150,000 in cash, financial documents, and action plans.

Several Kyrgyz media outlets have recently been designated extremist, with court rulings blocking their online operations.

Original Author: Raushan Korzhumbekova