'The protests unfolding in Kazakhstan, which have turned violent, are a direct consequence of the authorities' widespread repression of basic human rights.' amnesty
Friday that nearly 4,000"riot participants" had been detained and blamed demonstrators for the deaths of 13 police officers.they were carrying out an"anti-terrorist operation" in Almaty, leading protesters to gather with signs reading,"We are residents of Almaty, not terrorists."
“Instead of threatening to crack down on protesters, the Kazakhstani authorities must resolve the situation peacefully by immediately and unconditionally releasing all those who have been arbitrarily detained and addressing past abuses committed by the state," Struthers added."Protesters accused of internationally recognized crimes for violent actions should be provided with fair trials in accordance with international human rights law.