The court in Astana has begun deliberations in the case of a couple accused of embezzling 1.3 billion tenge raised through social media for their son's treatment. The prosecutor stated the need to find both guilty, proposing a sentence of 7 years in prison, a 10-year ban on charitable activities, and confiscation of property. For the mother, the prosecution suggested a two-year suspended sentence, considering she has a child born in 2019.
Additionally, the prosecutor requested that both be held in custody in the courtroom until a final verdict is reached. The couple's defense attorneys disagree with the charges and point to violations that occurred during the investigation.
According to the Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan for Financial Monitoring (AFM), the parents actively promoted fundraising through Instagram and Facebook, posting videos with their child, placing advertisements, and sharing emotional posts. However, the investigation revealed that only 6.5 million tenge was spent on treatment, while the remaining funds were used for personal needs: purchasing apartments, cars, land, and betting in bookmakers. Furthermore, 481 million tenge was spent on promoting the page to attract additional donations.
Source: ZTB Qazaqstan
