Local news / Exclusive

Foreign citizen dies in a fire at a hostel in Bishkek

In Bishkek, in the Sverdlovsk district, a fire broke out in a dormitory located in a three-story building. The information about the incident was provided by the press service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Kyrgyz Republic. The fire was completely extinguished by 10:20 AM. One fire crew and a command post were mobilized to extinguish the flames.

16.01.2026, 10:15
Exclusive

How Much Did the Members of the KR Cabinet Earn in 2024

Every year, the State Tax Service of the Kyrgyz Republic publishes reports on the income and expenses of government officials for the previous year. In these declarations, officials indicate their salaries, additional income, as well as information about movable and immovable property, including data on close relatives. Kaktus.media analyzed the data from the declarations.

16.01.2026, 10:12
In the Batken Region, energy equipment has been upgraded at 8 substations
Local news / Exclusive

In the Batken Region, energy equipment has been upgraded at 8 substations

The replacement of outdated 10 kV oil circuit breakers has been completed at eight substations in the Batken region. This was reported by the Ministry of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic. Specifically, at the 35/6 kV "Chauvay" substation, old oil circuit breakers were dismantled on the 6 kV lines "RESH-22," "School," "Factory," and "Site," as well as at the 35/6 kV "Pump - Kulundu" substation on the 6 kV lines "T-1,"

16.01.2026, 10:00
A Major Loan Shark and Owner of a Pawnshop Chain Detained
Incidents / Exclusive

A Major Loan Shark and Owner of a Pawnshop Chain Detained

A well-known loan shark, who is also the owner of a chain of pawnshops, has been detained in Bishkek. This was reported by the press service of the State Committee for National Security of the Kyrgyz Republic (GKNB KR). According to information from the state committee, the detainee, known by the initials S.M.A., was engaged in illegal pawnshop activities in Bishkek for profit, exploiting the vulnerable financial situation of citizens.

16.01.2026, 09:56
Food poisoning from fast food. The number of affected individuals has risen to 23, including 5 children.
Health / Exclusive

Food poisoning from fast food. The number of affected individuals has risen to 23, including 5 children.

According to the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic, as of January 16, the number of people affected by food poisoning at the fast food restaurant "Daamduu" in Bishkek has increased to 23, including 5 children. We remind you that on January 15, a mass poisoning occurred at this location, as previously reported by the Department of Disease Prevention and Sanitary-Epidemiological Surveillance, which recorded 17 victims, including 4 children. Currently, according to the latest

16.01.2026, 09:56
Arab countries stood up for Iran before Trump
Exclusive

Arab countries stood up for Iran before Trump

The region is concerned about the consequences of possible military intervention Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar are actively trying to convince U.S. President Donald Trump not to take military action against Iran, fearing "serious consequences for the region." This was reported by "Zerkalo," citing AFP and its sources.

16.01.2026, 09:55
Adylbek Kasymaliyev: The Crucial Stage of Debureaucratization Now Moves to the Regional Level
Exclusive

Adylbek Kasymaliyev: The Crucial Stage of Debureaucratization Now Moves to the Regional Level

The meeting on the issues of debureaucratization of public administration was held under the chairmanship of Adylbek Kasymaliev, the head of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan. During the meeting, Kasymaliev highlighted key areas related to debureaucratization, including the provision of quality and accessible services to citizens, as well as the creation of more comfortable conditions for business.

16.01.2026, 09:53
Local news / Exclusive

Dozens of predators shot after attacks on livestock in the village of Ak-Tal

In the village of Ak-Tal, located in the Ak-Tal district of the Naryn region, local hunters successfully shot 22 jackals since November 2025. The village elder, Dastan Imankbekov, noted that the hunted animals were delivered to the district's agricultural development management for registration and marking. Hunters receive a reward of about 1600 soms for each captured jackal.

16.01.2026, 09:47
Secretary of State: The Awarding of State Honors Must Adhere to Sequence and Traditions
Local news / Exclusive

Secretary of State: The Awarding of State Honors Must Adhere to Sequence and Traditions

Secretary of State of the Kyrgyz Republic Arslan Koichiev spoke on Kyrgyz Radio, emphasizing the importance of adhering to sequence and traditions when awarding state honors. He noted that this is a symbol of the continued development of the nation and statehood. Koichiev also expressed the opinion that changes are needed in the existing award system, adding that it should be elevated to a new qualitative level. “Criticism that undeserving individuals receive awards is heard quite often. There

16.01.2026, 09:47
Exclusive

The head of the Traffic Police of the Naryn region, detained by the State Committee for National Security, has been sentenced.

In Naryn, a verdict has been issued against the head of the Traffic Safety Department, who was previously detained by the State Committee for National Security (GKNB). According to data from the GKNB published in October 2025, the head of the Traffic Safety Department of the Naryn region was detained by GKNB officers in conjunction with the Internal Investigations Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. He was charged under Article 209, Part 4, Clause 4 ("Fraud using official

16.01.2026, 09:35
Bishkek is Catastrophically Lacking Ambulances
Exclusive

Bishkek is Catastrophically Lacking Ambulances

The shortage of specialized transport for ambulances in Bishkek has turned from a long-standing problem into a real threat to national security. On January 14, 2026, at a meeting of the Jogorku Kenesh, deputy Zhanibek Abirov shared alarming statistics: after the administrative-territorial reform, the population of the capital reached 1.3 million, while only 35-40 teams remain on duty. With such a load, medical workers cannot respond to calls in a timely manner, putting the lives of many people

16.01.2026, 09:34
The roads in the republic's passes have been cleared and are open for traffic.
Local news / Exclusive

The roads in the republic's passes have been cleared and are open for traffic.

According to the Ministry of Transport and Communications of the Kyrgyz Republic, as of January 16, the roads in the mountain passes are open for traffic, and there are no restrictions. The state enterprises "Kyrgyzavtozhol-Tushtuk" and "Kyrgyzavtozhol-Tunduk" are actively engaged in clearing the road surface and treating slippery sections with a special mixture of sand and salt.

16.01.2026, 09:23
How Farmers in the Chui Region Use Preferential Loans – Inspection by the Ministry of Agriculture
Economy / Exclusive

How Farmers in the Chui Region Use Preferential Loans – Inspection by the Ministry of Agriculture

On January 15, 2026, the Deputy Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic, Mirbek Duyshiev, along with the leadership of OJSC "Ayil Bank" and OJSC "Eldik Bank," visited the Moscow and Sokuluk districts of the Chui region. According to the press service of the ministry, during this visit, he got acquainted with several farms engaged in fattening and breeding livestock that received preferential loans under the state program to

16.01.2026, 09:19
The meeting of the KR ambassador with the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State of the USA took place – what was discussed?
Exclusive

The meeting of the KR ambassador with the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State of the USA took place – what was discussed?

On January 14, the Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan to the USA, Aibek Moldogaziev, met with John Pommerhime, who holds the position of Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Central and South Asia. During the meeting, current issues of Kyrgyz-American relations were discussed, including strengthening political dialogue and organizing joint events. Particular attention was paid to the upcoming B5+1 business forum, which will take place in Bishkek on February 4-5, as well as the development of trade

16.01.2026, 09:14
Around 35,000 citizens of Kyrgyzstan are at risk of deportation from Russia
Exclusive

Around 35,000 citizens of Kyrgyzstan are at risk of deportation from Russia

The minister emphasized that many citizens have been proactive and managed to check their data in the registry, which allowed them to legalize their stay in the country. For this, migrants were given an additional deadline. Nevertheless, Kulubaev noted that some citizens are still listed in the registry and are subject to deportation. He also mentioned that there is a possibility of easing Russia's migration policy, as there is a shortage of labor in the country. Furthermore, the minister

16.01.2026, 09:10
An Unexpected Danger of Drinking Water from Coolers
Health / Exclusive

An Unexpected Danger of Drinking Water from Coolers

A study conducted by scientists from Loma Linda University revealed that water coolers and vending machines for drinking water may contain more bacteria than regular tap water. A review of 70 scientific papers published in the journal AIMS Microbiology formed the basis for this conclusion. It was found that microbes can start to actively multiply in the nozzles and tubes of water dispensers just a few days after disinfection. This is due to the absence of residual chlorine in vending systems,

16.01.2026, 09:10
Exchange rates for January 16
Economy / Exclusive

Exchange rates for January 16

The National Bank has published the official exchange rates for January 16, 2026. Compared to the previous day's data, there are slight fluctuations in the values of several foreign currencies. In particular, the changes are as follows:

16.01.2026, 09:09
UN Secretary-General: World Leaders "Doom International Cooperation to Destruction"
Exclusive

UN Secretary-General: World Leaders "Doom International Cooperation to Destruction"

In his annual speech, delivered ahead of his departure at the end of 2026, Guterres emphasized his concern over the "brutal repression in Iran." He also pointed to "self-destructive geopolitical divides" and violations of international law, which he believes are undermining the foundations of global cooperation. Guterres also criticized the "significant reduction in development and humanitarian funding," which is thought to be linked to the budget cuts at the UN

16.01.2026, 08:57
The Minister of Culture of the Kyrgyz Republic visited the University of Music in Austria
Exclusive

The Minister of Culture of the Kyrgyz Republic visited the University of Music in Austria

During the visit, the minister met with the rector of the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, Ulrike Sih, as well as with the deputy director of the World Museum of Austria, Christian Schicklgruber. The meetings discussed important aspects of bilateral cultural and humanitarian cooperation, including the exchange of experiences, the implementation of joint projects and programs, as well as the training of youth in the field of culture and arts. Mirbek Mambetaliev emphasized that

16.01.2026, 08:56
Fast Food Poisoning: Doctors Remind About Preventive Measures
Health / Exclusive

Fast Food Poisoning: Doctors Remind About Preventive Measures

On January 15 in Bishkek, a case of poisoning occurred, affecting 17 people, including 4 children. This incident took place in a fast-food establishment, prompting employees of the Disease Prevention and State Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance Department of the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic to remind about ways to prevent food poisoning. Food poisoning is an acute illness that arises from consuming food containing pathogenic microorganisms, toxins, or toxic substances of

16.01.2026, 08:45
Meeting on Debureaucratization. Officials Warned of Personal Responsibility
Exclusive

Meeting on Debureaucratization. Officials Warned of Personal Responsibility

In Kyrgyzstan, a meeting was held chaired by Adylbek Kasymaliev, the head of the cabinet of ministers and the president's administrator. The main focus of the meeting was on issues of debureaucratization in the public administration system, as reported in a press release from the KR cabinet. Kasymaliev emphasized the priority areas of work in this sphere, including providing citizens with quality and accessible services, as well as improving the business climate.

16.01.2026, 08:42
Sanitary and Epidemiological Supervision Closed a Fast Food Outlet in Bishkek After Mass Food Poisoning from Shawarma
Exclusive

Sanitary and Epidemiological Supervision Closed a Fast Food Outlet in Bishkek After Mass Food Poisoning from Shawarma

According to preliminary data, the first symptoms of poisoning in the victims began to manifest at different times throughout the day on January 15, 2026, prompting them to seek help at the Republican Clinical Infectious Disease Hospital. Medical assistance was provided by doctors, and clinical samples were taken for subsequent laboratory analysis. All the victims had consumed shawarma purchased from this establishment on the same day. In response to this incident, employees of the State

16.01.2026, 08:28
Trump received the Nobel Peace Prize medal from Machado
Exclusive

Trump received the Nobel Peace Prize medal from Machado

During the meeting, Machado noted: “Today is a historic day for us, Venezuelans.” However, after the capture of Nicolás Maduro by American special forces, Trump did not express support for Machado as the new leader of the country, preferring to interact with Delcy Rodriguez, the acting president and former vice president under Maduro. “The medal can change hands” After the meeting, Machado addressed her supporters gathered at the gates of the White House, stating in Spanish: “We can count on

16.01.2026, 08:15
In Bishkek, 17 people were poisoned at the fast food point "Daamduu," including 4 children.
Incidents / Exclusive

In Bishkek, 17 people were poisoned at the fast food point "Daamduu," including 4 children.

On January 15, 2026, a mass poisoning occurred at the fast food restaurant "Daamduu" in Bishkek, affecting 17 people, including 4 children. The information was provided by the Department of Disease Prevention and Sanitary-Epidemiological Surveillance of the Ministry of Health of Kyrgyzstan. According to the department, 13 victims were hospitalized and are under medical supervision, while 4 people are receiving outpatient care.

16.01.2026, 08:14
Local news / Exclusive

In Chui Region, they are checking the readiness of equipment before the snowfall

In the Chui region, inspectors from the Traffic Safety Department of the local internal affairs management are checking the condition of specialized equipment and the availability of inert materials in road maintenance organizations. According to information from the Traffic Safety Department's press service, these inspections are carried out to ensure uninterrupted and quality work in the field of road maintenance, as well as to create safe conditions for all road users. As part of these

16.01.2026, 08:01
Local news / Exclusive

In the Issyk-Kul Region, an increase in the pheasant population has been recorded

The increase in the population of wild animals and birds in the country is associated with the introduction of stricter nature protection measures, reports Turmush correspondent. Previously, a significant number of swans wintering in this region were recorded in Issyk-Kul, but in recent years, there has also been an improvement in the situation with pheasants, whose population had significantly decreased in the past.

15.01.2026, 21:53
Exclusive

"State as a Partner, Not a Controller". The Cabinet Launches the Crucial Stage of Debureaucratization

At a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Adylbek Kasymaliev, measures for the debureaucratization of state governance were discussed. Kasymaliev noted that significant work had been done as part of the first stage of the reform, which will be completed in 2025. This stage covered central government bodies, where business processes were simplified, inter-agency electronic interaction was improved, and duplicating functions of state structures were eliminated.

15.01.2026, 20:53
Askhat Alagozov: Vladimir Solovyov's Statements are "Empty and Irrelevant"
Exclusive

Askhat Alagozov: Vladimir Solovyov's Statements are "Empty and Irrelevant"

Comment from the president's press secretary regarding the words of the TV host Askhat Alagozov, press secretary of President Sadyr Japarov, characterized the statements of TV host Vladimir Solovyov as "empty and unserious." This statement was made in the context of discussing the possible conduct of a special military operation (SMO) in Russia's spheres of influence.

15.01.2026, 20:50
Exclusive

Deputy Chief of the Alai District Police Department Reported for Duty in a State of Alcohol Intoxication — An Investigation Has Been Launched

On December 18, 2025, it became known that the deputy head of personnel at the Alai District Department of Internal Affairs came to work in a state of alcohol intoxication. According to the information received, the employee underwent a medical examination that confirmed his intoxicated state. Doctors determined that it was alcohol intoxication (acute intoxication).

15.01.2026, 20:41
The Abduction of Maduro: Hugo Chavez Already Predicted the Approach of This Operation
Exclusive

The Abduction of Maduro: Hugo Chavez Already Predicted the Approach of This Operation

In his prediction, Chavez claimed that attempts would be made to link him to drug trafficking, using methods similar to those applied to Manuel Noriega. He noted that the aim of the accusations would be to create an image of a "drug-trafficker president." On the morning of January 3, Trump announced on his Twitter about a "major strike" against Venezuela and its president. According to him, Maduro and his wife Cilia were "captured and taken out of the country."

15.01.2026, 19:49
Photo of the Day: A Flock of Swans on Lake Issyk-Kul
Local news / Exclusive

Photo of the Day: A Flock of Swans on Lake Issyk-Kul

On the shores of Issyk-Kul, a flock of swans has been spotted, wintering in this picturesque corner of Kyrgyzstan. These snow-white birds glide peacefully across the water, creating a stunning sight that is rarely seen during the winter months. Photos of the swans quickly gained popularity after being published on social media. Every year, Issyk-Kul becomes a winter home for swans and other migratory birds due to its warm waters and mild climate. It should be noted that the mute swan is listed

15.01.2026, 19:19
Local news / Exclusive

Young Talents: Schoolgirl Mayram Shamilieva from Karakol Creates Her Works Through Handicrafts

16-year-old Mayram Shamilieva, an 11th-grade student from Karakol, is actively engaged in handicrafts, creating dolls and soft toys. She began her interest in handicrafts in childhood, trying out various directions such as bead weaving, origami, and sewing. Ultimately, her heart responded most to the creation of soft toys and dolls. “For me, it is very meaningful to see how warm and lively things emerge from ordinary materials,” she shared.

15.01.2026, 18:46
The main New Year tree completes its festive mission
Local news / Exclusive

The main New Year tree completes its festive mission

In Almaty, the process of dismantling the main New Year’s tree has begun at Ala-Too Square. Local service employees have started to remove decorations and ornaments. This was reported by the "Kabar" agency, citing information from the city administration. It is important to note that the tree was lit on December 15. The design of the tree was developed in a unified style, reflecting the symbolism of the capital, the monument to Manas, and the renovated Ala-Too Square. This season,

15.01.2026, 18:41
Traffic Police: Regions Lack Conditions for Full Detection of Driver Intoxication
Exclusive

Traffic Police: Regions Lack Conditions for Full Detection of Driver Intoxication

At the meeting of the Jogorku Kenesh on January 15, the deputy head of the Department of Internal Affairs of the State Traffic Safety Department noted that there is a shortage of narcological centers and medical specialists in the regions of the country. This creates difficulties in assessing the condition of drivers. He also emphasized that there are staffing and infrastructure problems that hinder the implementation of necessary procedures, as reported by the media.

15.01.2026, 18:39
Exclusive

In Talas, a verdict has been delivered to a 60-year-old man in a case of sexual violence.

In the Talas region, a court trial took place, resulting in a verdict for a man accused of violent sexual acts against a child. The accused is a 60-year-old resident of one of the villages in the Bakai-Ata district, who faced trial for crimes against a minor. According to the decision of the Bakai-Ata District Court dated October 6, 2025, J.A.S. was found guilty under part 2 of Article 155 of the Criminal Code, which covers "Violent sexual acts." The court sentenced him to 12 years of

15.01.2026, 18:38