Unknown actors issue terror threats against schools in Kazakhstan PHOTO

Unknown individuals are circulating messages online about alleged plans for mass terrorist attacks in schools in Almaty. Police have responded to the reports.

Concerned parents contacted the NUR.KZ editorial office, saying that screenshots of posts from a Telegram channel are being shared in school chats and groups. In these posts, unidentified authors threaten to carry out mass attacks in schools on January 20.

“Dear parents! All city schools are aware of this: we received this information yesterday (we believe the source is being identified). Security organisations have been alerted. We are also concerned, but all security measures will be taken. Much depends on our students as well. We ask parents to monitor their children’s surroundings and behaviour,” the administration of one city school wrote.

The Almaty Police Department stated that the information about planned terrorist attacks does not correspond to reality and is fake.

“At present, the situation in the city’s educational institutions is under control. Police and other operational services are working in an enhanced режим, and all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety of children and teachers.

Operational search measures have been launched into the dissemination of false information. The author and source of the fake message are being identified. Those involved in its distribution will be held accountable in accordance with the law,” the police said in a statement.

Residents of Almaty were urged to remain calm, not to give in to panic, and to trust only official sources of information — statements from government bodies and law enforcement agencies.

“The dissemination of knowingly false information, especially when it concerns the safety of children, is a serious offense and entails legal responsibility. We ask people not to forward or spread unverified messages,” law enforcement officials concluded.

By Khagan Isayev