A video circulating on social media appears to show excavation work near Saka burial mounds in Taldybulak. After the footage was published, police opened a criminal case, the website infohub.kz reports.
The published footage shows work being carried out on a site that the authors of the post link to the location of ancient burials. It remains unclear who is conducting the work, for what purpose, and whether the necessary permits were obtained.
The police department of the Zhetisu region confirmed that an investigation has begun. "Police have opened a criminal case on the fact of vandalism. Investigative actions are currently underway," the Zhetisu police department said.
Earlier, "kursiv" reported that in September President Qasym-Jomart Toqaev instructed Astana akim Zhenis Kasymbek to take tough measures against those who leave graffiti on public buildings. Later, Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov instructed the Interior Ministry to work out the introduction of separate fines for such violations.
Vandalism currently carries fines of 100 to 200 MCI, or community service of up to 160 hours, or arrest of up to 50 days. For a repeat offense or actions by a group of people by prior conspiracy, the punishment can reach up to three years in prison.