Kazakhstani stand-up comedian Nurlan Saburov is being investigated in his homeland under a criminal article. According to media reports, if a case is initiated, he could face up to 12 years in prison.
This concerns a possible investigation under Article 170 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan "Mercenarism." If the artist's guilt is proven, the punishment may range from 7 to 12 years in prison.
More than a week ago, Nurlan Saburov was banned from entering Russia for 50 years — the decision was made "in the interest of national security."
It was reported that the comedian allegedly laundered funds earned in Russia through intermediaries. At Vnukovo Airport, where Saburov was detained upon arrival from Dubai, he stated that he had no money for a return ticket.
According to media reports, escorts were sent for him to fly back to the United Arab Emirates. Later, Telegram channels reported that the artist purchased a ticket to Kazakhstan to avoid being returned under escort.
It was also previously reported that Saburov is in the database of the Ukrainian website Myrotvorets, which is recognized as extremist in the territory of the Russian Federation. According to sources, he was added there back in 2022.
At the time of publication, there were no official comments from the comedian regarding the possible criminal case.
