AQTAU, Kazakhstan -- More than 40 local citizens will face trial for their alleged involvement in deadly December riots in the southwestern Kazakh town of Zhanaozen.
Manghystau region Governor Bauyrzhan Mukhamedzhanov told journalists on March 2 that the investigations of the clashes between security forces and striking oil workers that left at least 16 people dead had been completed and the case had been sent to a court in the regional capital of Aqtau.
Mukhamedzhanov added that the trial would be open.
Seven suspects have been charged with organizing the unrest, and 36 individuals were charged with taking part in the clashes.
International and domestic human rights organizations have criticized the Kazakh authorities for opening fire at unarmed protesters in Zhanaozen on December 16.
Manghystau region Governor Bauyrzhan Mukhamedzhanov told journalists on March 2 that the investigations of the clashes between security forces and striking oil workers that left at least 16 people dead had been completed and the case had been sent to a court in the regional capital of Aqtau.
Mukhamedzhanov added that the trial would be open.
Seven suspects have been charged with organizing the unrest, and 36 individuals were charged with taking part in the clashes.
International and domestic human rights organizations have criticized the Kazakh authorities for opening fire at unarmed protesters in Zhanaozen on December 16.