Intelligence Fusion’s Post [Video]

🇰🇿 Mass protests reported in Kazakhstan Demonstrations have taken place at towns and cities across Kazakhstan in support of protesters in the Mangystau region. The protests originally began in response to high fuel prices in the city of Zhanaozen, with protests taking place elsewhere in the country in support. Clashes with security forces have been reported in multiple locations along with arson attacks and reports of protesters storming local government buildings. The southern city of Almaty has seen particularly intense clashes, as protesters have seized control of government vehicles and broken through police cordons as well as torching an office of Nur-Otan, the ruling party. Police in turn have responded with tear gas, stun grenades and water cannons. In response to the protests, the resignation of the Kazak government was accepted by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, though this appears to have done little to appease the protesters. As stated, the protests began over high fuel prices, though this is believed to have been a catalyst, as longer term factors such as poor economic conditions in Kazakhstan and high price of living have contributed to general frustration with the government and the outbreak of demonstrations. In contrast to the standing down of the government, security forces have continued to suppress protests (although the level of force used has varied region to region) with internet connection also being shut down across the country and activists temporarily detained.  Going forwards, the heavy handed response from security forces will likely provoke further escalation, with protesters already seen storming akimat buildings in cities such as Almaty, Atyrau and Aktobe. Our analysts provide a monthly intelligence report on Central Asia, sent directly to the inbox of email subscribers. To be the first to get January's report at the end of the month, sign up here: https://lnkd.in/dg2Mnpx #CentralAsia #SecurityIndustry #IntelligenceAnalysis #IntelligenceCommunity #Kazakhstan