Musician Vikram Ruzakhunov recently testified in a Kazakh court, providing details about the deposition of his testimony and the status of the accused individuals. Ruzakhunov explained that the deposition of the victim's testimony aims to prevent further interrogations during the pre-trial stage and trial proceedings. He mentioned that four detained individuals, now considered suspects, were requested to be present in court. Despite challenges during the proceedings, Ruzakhunov emphasized the importance of the deposition procedure initiated by the investigative body.
Previously, four police officers were detained in Almaty in connection to a criminal case involving the alleged torture of Kyrgyz musician Vikram Ruzakhunov during the January 2022 unrest in Kazakhstan. The musician had initially traveled to Kazakhstan to participate in a rally in Almaty, as reported on social media and Kazakh TV channels. Following his return to Kyrgyzstan, Ruzakhunov disclosed the harsh treatment he endured, including bruises and abrasions from the arrest.
Activists and journalists from Kyrgyzstan urged authorities of both countries to release the detained musician and ensure his safe return home. Despite conflicting statements initially, Ruzakhunov later admitted to being subjected to torture. Criminal cases were initiated in response to the incidents involving Ruzakhunov and another Kyrgyz individual, Cholponbek Sydykov. The legal proceedings shed light on the importance of upholding human rights and seeking justice for victims of alleged abuses.
