Former First Deputy Prime Minister Tayirbek Sarpashev detained within Kumtor probe

AKIPRESS.COM - The National Security Committee has detained former First Deputy Prime Minister Tayirbek Sarpashev.
"Pretrial investigation revealed Sarpashev's criminal actions in collusion with the country's top political leadership and Centerra representatives aimed at lobbying this company bringing environmental damage to the glaciers located at the Kumtor mine," the statement said.
While holding responsible positions in the government, Sarpashev prevented the development and adoption of the draft law on glaciers aimed to ensure the safety of glaciers lobbying the interests of Centerra.
Moreover, Sarpashev introduced amendments to the Water Code for consideration by the Parliament of the country allowing Kumtor Gold Company JSC to conduct mining of the glaciers located at the Kumtor mine, which led to the destruction of the Lysyi and Davydov glaciers.
On June 17, 2021, Sarpashev was detained on suspicion of corruption. Pervomaisky district court in Bishkek will select form of arrest for him soon.