A video has appeared on social media showing what is believed to be excavation work in the area of Saka burial mounds in Taldybulak. After the footage appeared, police opened a criminal case. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
The published footage shows work at a site that the authors of the post link to the location of ancient burials. It is still unknown who is carrying out 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.
"The police have opened a criminal case on the fact of vandalism. Investigative actions are currently underway," the Zhetisu police department said.
Earlier, Kursiv wrote that in September President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev instructed Astana akim Zhenis Kassymbek to take tough measures against those who leave graffiti on public buildings.
Later, Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov instructed the Ministry of Internal Affairs to work out the introduction of separate fines for such violations.
Currently, vandalism is punishable by fines from 100 to 200 MCI, or community service up to 160 hours, or arrest up to 50 days. For a repeated violation or actions by a group of persons by prior conspiracy, the punishment can reach up to three years of imprisonment.