The detention took place on March 6 at around 12:20 on the bypass road near the city of Tokmok. Azhiev is suspected of violating Article 283 of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic, concerning "the illegal production of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances without the intent to sell."
He is currently in a temporary detention facility, and investigative actions are ongoing.
In 2024, the court of the Pervomaisky District sentenced Azhiev to nine years in prison with confiscation of property. He was found guilty on several charges, including Article 160 Part 1 (organizing brothels for prostitution), Article 161 (distribution of pornographic materials), Article 261 Part 1 (participation in an organized criminal group), and Article 215 Part 3 (causing material damage through deception) of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic.
The court also imposed a two-year ban on him engaging in entrepreneurial activities, as well as a fine of 220,000 soms that he was required to pay.
In 2026, President Sadyr Japarov pardoned Azhiev, and on February 17, he was released.
Later, the president commented on this situation, stating that Azhiev left prison by helicopter; however, 15 minutes later, the helicopter was turned around, and he was returned to the departure point. After that, Azhiev continued his journey by car.
