Collage: Ertenmedia.kz
In Shymkent, blogger Arai Yessenbek was found guilty of extortion and sentenced to 5 years in prison, reports Todayinfo.kz.
Last November, the detention of a media specialist who previously served as press secretary of the city mayor caused public resonance. After leaving his post, he launched his own media projects and worked under state information orders.
However, after funding was reduced, the blogger demanded 10 million tenge from a familiar official. He threatened to publish negative materials on his resources if the money was not provided.
The official contacted law enforcement. During the money transfer, Arai Yessenbek was detained.
The court found him guilty under Part 4 of Article 194 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan and sentenced him to 5 years in prison.
It should be noted that the verdict has not yet entered into legal force.
