A former akim of Shalkar, sentenced to four years of restriction of freedom, fell victim to a fraudster who promised to secure an acquittal for him. She demanded 8 million tenge for her services, but after receiving half the amount, she failed to deliver, reports infohub.kz.
Disagreeing with the verdict, the ex-official sought ways to appeal it. On the advice of a relative, he turned to a woman named Kalamkas S., who was introduced to him as a lawyer.
The meeting took place at Kalamkas's home. She stated that she could secure an acquittal for 8 million tenge. The man, along with his father, handed over half of the required amount.
A week later, the fraudster said the matter was being resolved and demanded the remainder after a positive outcome. However, the verdict remained unchanged. No contract was signed, and the money was handed over without a receipt. The defendant herself claimed she received 4 million tenge as a loan.
The investigation also uncovered episodes of housing fraud. Kalamkas S. acted in collusion with Akbota T. The latter offered citizens, for a fee, to put them on a waiting list for rental housing with subsequent purchase through Samruk-Kazyna.
One victim transferred 47 million tenge to the women for help in obtaining a two-bedroom apartment in the capital's residential complex Edelveis and three three-bedroom apartments in the Highvill complex. Other citizens suffered under similar schemes.
The court found both women guilty of fraud. 54-year-old Kalamkas S. was sentenced to six years in prison and taken into custody in the courtroom. Akbota T. also received six years, but the sentence was deferred for three years due to having a young child. The court ordered the convicts to compensate the victims.
Earlier it was reported that in Kazakhstan fraudsters use a scheme with fake investment platforms: first they allow withdrawing a small amount, then convince to invest significantly more. After accumulating a large sum, access to the money is blocked and they demand payment of taxes, commissions, or insurance. The National Bank reminded that its employees do not offer investment products and do not conduct settlements with the public.