Suspected extremist group member detained in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyz security authorities have detained a woman suspected of involvement with Hizb ut-Tahrir, a religious extremist organisation banned in the country, according to the State Committee for National Security (SCNS).

The SCNS said the arrest was carried out on June 17 as part of an ongoing criminal investigation aimed at identifying and disrupting the activities of members of the organisation, Caliber.Az repors per Kyrgyz media. 

During a search of the suspect’s residence, investigators reportedly seized religious literature and materials that authorities described as extremist in nature. Mobile phones and other items were also confiscated as evidence.

The detained woman, identified only by her initials, D.M.Sh., is believed by the SCNS to hold a leadership position within the organisation.

Hizb ut-Tahrir is banned in Kyrgyzstan and several other countries in Central Asia, where authorities classify it as an extremist group. The organisation advocates for the establishment of an Islamic caliphate but says it pursues its objectives through non-violent means. Nevertheless, regional governments have long viewed the group as a threat to national security.

The Kyrgyz security agency reiterated that participation in the activities of extremist and terrorist organisations prohibited under national law carries criminal penalties.

Authorities said investigations into the case are ongoing.

By Sabina Mammadli