Response of Kyrgyz Authorities to Terrorist Accusation Against Singer

Kyrgyzstan's authorities have sent a note to Kazakhstan concerning the arrest of a Kyrgyz citizen by the country's security forces on suspicion of terrorism. This was reported by the head of the Kyrgyz State National Security Committee to journalists. According to him, the Kyrgyz side is "offended" by the unfounded accusations brought against a "respected citizen, musician, and public figure" of Kyrgyzstan by the Kazakh law enforcement agencies. He expressed confidence that the detained Kyrgyz musician Vikram Ruzakhunov cannot be a terrorist.

“Most likely, he could have been in the wrong place at the wrong time,” said the head of the SNSC.

Telegram channels report that Kyrgyz President Sadir Japarov stated that he does not rule out the participation of citizens of the republic in the unrest in Kazakhstan. It is noteworthy that one of those arrested in Almaty, Kazakhstan, claimed during a local television broadcast that he had arrived from Kyrgyzstan, and some people had offered him $200 to participate in the rally. Along with him were individuals from Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

Additionally, a rally was held near the Kazakh embassy in Bishkek in support of the detained musician. Local residents, including Kyrgyz artists and representatives of the show business, are demanding the release of the musician.