2,700 Police Officers Deployed to Maintain Order in Bishkek Tonight
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan – May 18, 2024
In response to a spontaneous protest against foreigners that erupted in Bishkek, at least 2,700 police officers and around 1,000 volunteers from a citizen patrol have been deployed to maintain order in the capital tonight. The Bishkek police force is currently operating in an enhanced mode to address the situation.
The protest, which began last night and continued into the morning of May 18, resulted in 29 individuals sustaining injuries, according to the Ministry of Health. The demonstration stemmed from an incident involving four Egyptian citizens who were detained for their involvement in a brawl at a hostel on May 13. Subsequently, a criminal case was initiated under the charge of “Hooliganism” in accordance with the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic.
Fortunately, police were able to negotiate with the protesters, leading to the reopening of Chui Avenue and the dispersal of the demonstrators. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to take necessary actions to prevent any further escalation of tensions in the city.
Nuris Alymbaev, reporting for 24.kg news agency.
