Translated with AI
Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov commented on the situation with convicted webcam studio founder Daniel Azhiev, who left Penal Colony No. 8 in the village of Petrovka by helicopter. This was reported by Tengrinews.kz, citing 24.kg.
The story sparked widespread public outcry in Kyrgyzstan. Azhiev had previously been convicted of running illegal webcam studios, but was later pardoned by presidential decree. Following his release, images of him flaunting his lavish lifestyle and boasting about his wealth circulated on social media, sparking criticism.
In an interview with the Kabar news agency, Sadyr Japarov said the convicted man's mother had approached him with a request for clemency. According to the president, the woman sent him a video message via WhatsApp.
He reported that the woman spoke of her family's difficult situation and asked for her son's pardon. She said his wife and four children, one of whom is disabled, were living in difficult conditions. She assured him that her son would be disciplined and calm upon his release.
Japarov noted that he believed the woman's words and signed a decree of pardon.
The President also clarified that he pardoned not only Azhiev that day.
According to him, a total of 75 people convicted of minor crimes were pardoned at that time.
The head of state also commented on reports that Azhiev had left the prison colony by helicopter. According to Japarov, when he was informed of this, he ordered the helicopter returned.
The President confirmed that the information about the helicopter flight was accurate. He said that 15 minutes later, the helicopter returned and landed at its takeoff site.
Japarov also stated that the Ministry of Emergency Situations had nothing to do with the incident. He noted that the agency's helicopters, in addition to their official duties, can perform commercial flights to help cover their costs.
According to him, anyone who pays for and books a flight can use the helicopter. However, when placing an order, they only need to specify the pickup location, return location, flight time, and number of passengers.
The President stressed that the ministry should not be blamed for what happened.
Japarov also admitted that he was surprised by Azhiev’s behavior after his release.
According to him, the convicted man's mother said the family was in dire straits, but her son was able to rent a helicopter to escape prison. The president noted that after this, he felt he had been deceived.
The head of state added that many people take advantage of his kindness and gentle demeanor. He also emphasized that when a gentle person becomes tough, the situation changes.
Earlier, a video circulated on social media showing a helicopter taking off near a penal colony.
Daniel Azhiev was released early in February of this year. According to his family, this was made possible by a pardon from the President of Kyrgyzstan.
In the fall of 2024, Azhiev was sentenced to nine years in prison with confiscation of property and a fine. The court found him guilty of organizing brothels, distributing pornography, and causing property damage.
In addition, he was banned from engaging in business activities for two years.
