The Russian rapper Navai (Navai Bakirov) has been released from custody and deported from Kazakhstan. The criminal drugs case was terminated on non-rehabilitative grounds, taking into account that the musician committed the offence for the first time and actively repented.
WHY THE RAPPER WAS DETAINED
As reported by the Telegram channel BAK posev, on 13 October the musician was detained at the Kordai border crossing point upon entering from Kyrgyzstan. He was returning after a concert in Bishkek and heading to Astana.
According to journalist Mikhail Kozachkov, a service dog discovered drugs in the Mercedes car driven by the rapper. During the search, 2.5 grammes of marijuana were found. Two of his companions were detained along with the artist.
Later, information emerged about the discovery of prohibited substances in the musician's blood. The court authorised his arrest for two months.
WHAT THE DEFENCE STATED
The rapper's lawyer, Rena Kerimova, in an interview with REN TV said that the artist feels well, reads books and writes poetry.
The defence lawyer also noted that there were several people in the car. In her opinion, Bakirov is innocent, however the decision to plead guilty is made by the musician himself.
These statements were also cited by Ulysmedia.kz, which reported on the prospects of the artist's imminent release.
WHY THE CRIMINAL CASE WAS TERMINATED
On 20 October, the police department of the Zhambyl region confirmed the termination of the criminal case.
"The criminal case against the Russian rap artist has been terminated on non-rehabilitative grounds, taking into account the offence he committed for the first time and his active repentance in accordance with the requirements of criminal procedural legislation," the police reported.
The decision was approved by the supervisory authority. After his release, the musician was deported from Kazakhstan. He flew to Russia.
Termination of a case on non-rehabilitative grounds does not mean a person is found innocent. At the same time, the published police comment does not specify which of the musician's actions were recognised as active repentance.
