07 Aug 2019 | 07:23 PM UTC
Kyrgyzstan: Supporters of former president reportedly detain special forces commandos Aug. 7-8 /update 1
Special forces attempt arrest of ex-president outside of Bishkek August 7-8; supporters claim to have detained commandos as raid fails; heightened security presence expected in coming hours and days
Event
Government special forces reportedly attempted to arrest former president Almazbek Atambayev at his compound in Koy Tash, outside of Bishkek, at approximately 20:00 (local time) on Wednesday, August 7. Local sources claim supporters of Atambayev overpowered the special forces commandos and detained them as of the early morning hours on Thursday, August 8. Unconfirmed sources claim at least one commando died from a gunshot wound; several protesters were also wounded in the initial assault. Supporters of Atambayev claim he has not been arrested. A heightened security presence is to be expected in the area.
Context
Almazbek Atambayev, whose presidential term ended in late 2017, has since been stripped of immunity from prosecution by president Sooronbai Jeenbekov's government and is accused of corruption.
Advice
Individuals in Bishkek and surrounding areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the affected area, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
