Former Security Chief Of Kazakhstan Detained For Treason Amidst Protest

Amidst the ongoing unrest and protests in Kazakhstan, the former head of the country’s domestic intelligence agency has been detained on suspicion of high treason.

The National Security Committee said in a statement on Saturday that Karim Masimov, the former security chief of the country was arrested on Thursday.

The statement reads in part that; “On January 6, 2022, the National Security Committee launched a pre-trial investigation into high treason."

“And on the same day, on suspicion of committing this crime, former chairman of security, Masimov was detained and placed in a temporary detention centre, along with others.”

Kazakhstan has been in turmoil for over one week over protests against hike in fuel price, which has turned into an anti-government rally.

Authorities disclosed that security forces have killed 26 protesters this week while 18 security officers have also lost their lives.

As the protest continues, more than 4,400 people have been arrested. In addition, some public buildings across Kazakhstan have been destroyed by the protesters.

On Friday, the President of the country, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev ordered troops to shoot to kill at protests grounds.