BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 5. Kazakhstan’s law
enforcement agencies have opened 13 criminal cases over suspected
embezzlement of state property, abuse of office, and other
violations at Defense Ministry organizations and units, according
to the results of the first stage of a comprehensive inspection
presented to Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.


According to the presidential press service, Tokayev heard
preliminary findings from the commission conducting the inspection
of the Defense Ministry.


The commission said the tragic events in the Mangystau region
had exposed systemic problems in the Armed Forces. Preliminary
findings indicate serious shortcomings in the planning of military
activities and insufficient oversight by the previous
leadership.


The inspection also identified significant shortcomings in the
preparation and planning of military exercises, risk assessment,
the organization of troop deployment, and measures to ensure
servicemen’s safety.


A pre-trial investigation into alleged criminal negligence by
commanders is ongoing. Five officials have been arrested, while a
final legal assessment of their actions will be made after the
investigation is completed.


The inspection also uncovered shortcomings in military
discipline and preventive work, including individual cases of
hazing and violence against servicemen. Criminal cases have been
opened over these incidents.


Particular attention is being paid to safety requirements,
conditions of military service, logistical support and work with
personnel.







Tokayev said all officials found responsible for the deaths of
servicemen must be held accountable in accordance with the law. He
instructed the commission and the new Defense Ministry leadership
to develop specific proposals to address the identified
shortcomings.


The inspection’s findings are to be taken into account when
preparing a reform plan for the Armed Forces. The commission will
continue its work.


Tokayev ordered a comprehensive inspection and audit
of the Ministry of Defense following a fatal incident involving
servicemen in the Caspian Sea.


On September 24, 2026, 17 servicemen fell into the
water amid a storm and strong winds during the Khazar Korgany-2026
military exercises in Kazakhstan’s Mangystau region. Fourteen
servicemen died.


Following the incident, Tokayev dismissed Defense
Minister Dauren Kosanov on September 27. Major General Aidos
Myrzakhmetov, who previously headed the Special Operations Forces,
was appointed as the new Defense Minister.