An foreign performer known by the stage name NAVAI has been detained while entering Kazakhstan in Zhambyl Region on suspicion of drug smuggling, and a criminal case has been opened, the website infohub.kz reports.
According to the Zhambyl Region Police Department, the foreign national was detained on October 13 at the Kordai border crossing. Police officers, together with the Border Service of the National Security Committee, took part in the operation.
"During an inspection of the vehicle he was traveling in, a narcotic substance was found and seized. A criminal case has been opened on suspicion of attempted drug smuggling," police said.
The suspect has been placed in a temporary detention facility. A pre-trial investigation is underway. Other information is not subject to disclosure under Article 201 of the Criminal Procedure Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Recall that a few hours earlier it became known that NAVAI's fans would not be able to attend a planned performance in Astana. The organizers announced the cancellation of the concert, which was to take place on the evening of October 14.