Kaztemirtrans Comments on Arrest of Almaty Branch Director in Bribery Case

The company Kaztemirtrans has confirmed that investigative actions are being carried out against the director of its Almaty branch, who was detained on suspicion of bribery. The organization, however, expressed doubts about some of the details of the case that have been made public.

According to earlier reports, the director was allegedly caught red-handed while receiving a bribe amounting to approximately 540 million tenge. The detention reportedly took place in one of Almaty's restaurants. Preliminary information suggests the funds may have been intended to resolve issues related to the branch's operations, specifically to facilitate obtaining permission for a private security company to service Kaztemirtrans facilities across Kazakhstan.

In an official statement, Kaztemirtrans acknowledged that competent law enforcement agencies are conducting investigative measures. The company stated it is providing full assistance to the authorities and furnishing all necessary information and documents for the ongoing investigation.

At the same time, Kaztemirtrans cast doubt on information alleging that a large bribe was taken to help win a state procurement contract for security services. The company clarified that all procedures for concluding contracts for security services have already been finalized.

The firm provided figures indicating that the total budget allocated for security services is about 200 million tenge, with just over 9 million tenge earmarked this year for guarding the production bases of the Almaty branch. These amounts are significantly lower than the alleged bribe sum being reported.

Kaztemirtrans emphasized its adherence to principles of legality, transparency, and zero tolerance for any manifestations of corruption. The company stated that if violations of the law are confirmed, all measures provided by legislation will be taken. It expressed interest in an objective and comprehensive investigation to establish the truth as prescribed by law.

Kaztemirtrans is a subsidiary of Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) National Company and ranks among Kazakhstan's largest freight wagon operators.