Cases of sexual violence in Kazakhstan have begun to be assigned to female investigators. This was announced by the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, Sanjar Adilov.
WHAT CHANGES WERE ANNOUNCED BY THE MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS
According to Sanjar Adilov, the investigation of sexual violence cases is being assigned to female investigators. He stated that this decision was made to minimise additional psychological trauma for victims.
WHEN A CRIMINAL CASE IS INITIATED
The Deputy Minister also clarified the application of Article 125-1 of the Criminal Code of Kazakhstan ("Coercion into Marriage"). He noted that both women and men can be victims under this article.
For a criminal case to be initiated, there must be threats or the use of violence. According to Sanjar Adilov, such actions may come from the prospective spouse or their relatives.
If these signs are absent, the situation is considered a civil dispute.
WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT PROPOSALS ON STALKING
Sanjar Adilov reported that the Ministry of Internal Affairs has proposed introducing a criterion of repeat offending for the article on stalking.
According to him, there are cases where a person continues to harass the victim after already being convicted and having served their sentence. This issue is currently under review in the Mazhilis.