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A contentious dispute surrounding the ownership of the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Almaty has taken a new turn, with allegations of illegal asset seizure and questionable dealings intensifying.

The case centers on businesswoman Sholpan Karaneeva, who claims the property was unlawfully taken from her and is now seeking to reclaim her rights. The core of the controversy lies in potential illegalities that may have occurred during the process of transferring the hotel into state ownership.

Background of the Dispute

Previously, Karaneeva had acquired the DoubleTree by Hilton Almaty hotel using a bank loan and had purchased the Hilton franchise. However, the hotel faced financial difficulties and ceased operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequently, the bank lost its license, and a collection agency became involved in the debt recovery process.

Allegations of Undervaluation and Transfer

Reports indicate that the hotel, valued at over 9 billion tenge, was eventually sold for a significantly lower price. According to sources, the property came under the control of companies associated with Kairat Satybaldy. The collection agency reportedly appraised the hotel's assets at a very low value and transferred them to Baidala V company, which later formalized the ownership under Kairat Satybaldy. Following this, the hotel was designated as one of the "returned assets" to the state.

Claims of Illegality and Raiderism

Karaneeva and her legal team assert that the entire process was conducted illegally, alleging that the hotel was seized through raider tactics. A criminal case was initiated concerning these allegations, but after 11 months of investigation, it was unexpectedly closed.

Further complicating the matter are questions surrounding the property appraisal. Concerns have been raised about an expert preparing a 400-page report in just a few days and determining the hotel's wear and tear level based on visual estimation rather than concrete documentation.

The Fate of the Hilton Brand

Another facet of the dispute involves the Hilton brand itself. Karaneeva's lawyers argue that the right to use the international Hilton name should legally remain with the legitimate franchise holder. Although the hotel was presented as transferred to the state along with the brand, it is claimed that no one legally transferred such rights.

The situation is being viewed by some as a sign that the methods of the "Old Kazakhstan" have not been eradicated, raising societal questions about pressure on businesses, questionable asset redistribution, and unresolved criminal cases.

This information was reported by Infohub.kz.