Kyrgyzstan Unearthed: Corruption in Mineral Extraction Licensing Exposed
Illegal Mineral Extraction License Scheme Uncovered in Kyrgyz Republic
On April 16, 2025, the State Committee for National Security of the Kyrgyz Republic (SCNS) announced the discovery of an illegal scheme involving the issuance of mineral extraction licenses. According to the report, several companies were found to be operating in violation of the country’s laws on subsoil use.
The investigation revealed that a Kyrgyz citizen, identified as Zh.M., who worked as a designer in sand and gravel mixture (SGM) quarries, conspired with an inspector from the Land and Water Supervision Service of the Chui-Bishkek regional department, known as Sh.A. They illegally sold a license for $250,000 to investors from the People’s Republic of China. Both individuals have been arrested and placed in institution No. 21 of the State Penitentiary Service.
The SCNS is currently conducting further investigative and operational measures to uncover additional cases of illegal license issuance for mineral deposits and identify other officials involved in these unlawful activities.
This revelation highlights the importance of combating corruption and enforcing regulations in the mining industry to ensure fair and transparent practices in the Kyrgyz Republic.
