Kazakh Journalist Beaten In Aqtobe

A correspondent with Kazakhstan's independent "Svoboda Slova" ("Freedom of Speech") newspaper has been severely beaten by unknown attackers in the northwestern city of Aqtobe.

The Almaty-based media rights organization, Adil Soz (A Just Word), announced on August 21 that Igor Larra was assaulted by four men who beat him with a metal rod.

Larra said he sustained wounds to his scalp and lost consciousness after the attack late on August 20.

He said the assailants did not take his wallet or any of his journalistic equipment.

Larra believes the attack is connected with his recent reports criticizing the Aqtobe region's governor.

He managed to reach police station after being beaten, and he reported the incident.

Larra said the police promised to contact him on August 21 and arrange a medical examination, but this did not materialize.


Based on reporting by adilsoz.kz and Interfax