Former PM Abilgaziev gave extra land to Kumtor illegally, top security agency says

AKIPRESS.COM - Former Prime Minister Muhammedkaly Abilgaziev is suspected of corruption and illegal wealth, according to the National Security Committee.
During his role as the Prime Minister, Abilgaziev signed a deliberately damaging to the state interests government decree giving away the Kumtor Gold Company additional territories for gold exploration and mining almost doubling the mine area to 26.3 thousand hectares, including several glaciers and a protected area.
Previously, a government decree banning expansion of the area of the mine was in effect in order to preserve unique nature, biological, landscape diversity and species of flora and fauna included in the Red List of Threatened Animals and Plants.
Development of these areas will lead to severe environmental consequences for animals and plants of the biosphere zone of Issyk-Kul, and can also disrupt the hydropower system of the country, the statement said.
Abilgaziev is also suspected of illegal wealth while holding public services. In order to legalize them, he purchased expensive movable and immovable property on the territory of Bishkek, Chui and Issyk-Kul regions, made investments in the construction of multi-apartment luxury houses. These assets were registered in the name of third parties to hide them.
Abilgaziev was arrested on January 26 and taken to the temporary detention facility. The investigation is underway.