Kyrgyz leader vows harsh punishment for "enemies of the people"

President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov has called for harsh punishment for people he accused of trying to destabilise the country while receiving funding from abroad.

Speaking on August 29 in Ala-Too Square, Japarov said a small group of “enemies of the people” were seeking to spread panic and destabilise the country under the influence of external forces, Caliber.Az reports per Kyrgyz media.

“There will be no mercy” for such people, he said.

Japarov was speaking during a formation of law-enforcement personnel deployed to provide security for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit and the sixth World Nomad Games.

The president also stressed the importance of “iron discipline” and called on security agencies to demonstrate professionalism and responsibility.

An operation called “Security” has been launched for the international events, with about 15,000 personnel from various security and government agencies involved in enhanced patrols.

Japarov ordered officials to ensure the safety of citizens and foreign guests and prevent offences at public places and event venues.

He also urged security personnel to communicate politely with the public and provide prompt assistance to people seeking help.

By Aghakazim Guliyev