Kazakh Interior Minister Announces Dismissals After Fatal Almaty Crash

Kazakhstan's Minister of Internal Affairs, Yerzhan Sadenov, has announced the dismissal of several officials following a fatal traffic accident on Al-Farabi Avenue in Almaty. The crash, which occurred on the night of March 21, resulted in the deaths of three young people.

The collision involved a Mercedes and a Zeekr at the intersection of Al-Farabi and Mendikulov streets. The 29-year-old driver and two female passengers, aged 20 and 22, in the Mercedes died at the scene. The driver of the Zeekr survived and was hospitalized with injuries.

A criminal case has been initiated against the surviving driver under Part 4 of Article 345 of the Criminal Code for violating traffic rules resulting in the death of two or more persons through negligence. The article carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment. The suspect is currently under arrest by court order.

In a statement published on social media, Minister Sadenov expressed condolences to the families of the victims. He confirmed that a comprehensive inspection is underway by officials from several internal departments dispatched to Almaty on his instruction.

"A number of managers have been relieved of their duties," Sadenov stated. "I emphasize that everyone will face legal assessment. No one will escape responsibility. The law is the same for all."

Separate criminal proceedings have also been initiated regarding potential official misconduct related to the incident.

The tragedy has sparked public speculation about its causes. Videos circulating online suggest street racing may have been involved, with unverified claims that a high-ranking police officer in an official vehicle might have participated.

Murat Abenov, a member of the Mazhilis (the lower house of parliament), publicly questioned whether a police officer was involved in the alleged race that led to the deaths, calling on the Ministry of Internal Affairs for clarification.

Aidyn Kabduldinov, head of the Almaty Police Department, stated that an official investigation is being conducted and promised severe measures if any officers are found guilty.