Azhiev was arrested on March 6 at around 12:20 PM on the bypass road near the city of Tokmok. He is suspected of violating Article 283 of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic, concerning the illegal production of drugs and psychotropic substances without the intent to sell.
After his arrest, he was placed in a temporary detention facility, and an investigation is currently underway.
In 2024, Azhiev received a nine-year prison sentence with property confiscation. The court of the Pervomaisky district found him guilty on several charges, including organizing brothels for prostitution, distributing pornographic materials, and participating in an organized criminal group.
Additionally, the court deprived him of the right to engage in business for two years, imposing a sentence of imprisonment in a general regime colony and a fine of 220,000 soms.
In 2026, President Sadyr Japarov pardoned Azhiev, and he was released on February 17.
Later, the president commented on his release, claiming that Azhiev flew out of prison in a helicopter, but 15 minutes later the helicopter was turned back, and he was returned to the original position. After that, Azhiev left the location by car.
