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Investigation Continues in Astana on Case of Ex-Minister Accused of Wife's Murder

in News / Kazakhstan - by


The trial of former Minister of National Economy Kuandyk Bishimbayev, accused of the brutal murder of his wife Saltanat Nukenova, continues in Astana. Today, forensic expert Takhir Khalimnazarov and the friend of the deceased, Aida Akhmedina, testified.

Khalimnazarov detailed the injuries found on Nukenova's body, indicating severe head trauma that led to her death. He explained the presence of hematomas and signs of neck compression, consistent with mechanical asphyxiation. The expert emphasized that the injuries sustained were fatal and incompatible with accidental causes.

Akhmedina recounted interactions between Nukenova and Bishimbayev, shedding light on their deteriorating relationship and instances of abuse. Nukenova confided in Akhmedina about Bishimbayev's controlling behavior, physical violence, and emotional manipulation. The witness described a pattern of escalating aggression and possessiveness exhibited by Bishimbayev, leading to the tragic outcome.

The investigation, which concluded in January 2024, revealed additional charges of torture alongside the initial accusation of murder with special cruelty. Witnesses, including a paramedic and a police officer, provided testimonies in court, corroborating the evidence against Bishimbayev. The victim's lawyer, Zhanna Urazbakhova, clarified the cause of Nukenova's death, linking it to the sustained injuries inflicted by Bishimbayev.

During his court appearance on April 1st, Bishimbayev expressed remorse to Nukenova's family but denied intentional involvement in her death. The proceedings shed light on the tragic events leading to Nukenova's untimely demise, unveiling a story of domestic abuse and violence that culminated in a shocking crime. As the trial unfolds, the quest for justice and accountability remains paramount in the pursuit of truth and closure for the victim's loved ones.