According to her information, about 30 mothers of young people serving sentences under Article 282 of the Criminal Code of Kyrgyzstan (illegal production of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances for the purpose of sale) have approached her for support.
Elvira Surabaldiyeva noted that this article provides for punishment in the form of imprisonment for a term of 8 to 13 years. Among the convicted, there are many young people aged 18-19.
“According to the parents' accounts, most of them became victims of deception and manipulation, rather than consciously choosing a life of crime. Many simply found themselves drawn into illegal activities,” the deputy added.
She emphasized the importance of discussing possible amendments that would take into account the age of offenders and the circumstances of their first offenses, so as not to ruin the futures of young people with harsh penalties.
The deputy also pointed out the problem that most often only "mules" and minor perpetrators are detained, while major drug lords, who control significant volumes of trade, remain outside the purview of law enforcement agencies.
Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Oktobyr Urmambetov did not rule out the possibility of discussing the issue of softening penalties and expressed readiness for dialogue with the parents of the convicted.
