Prosecutor General’s Office of Kazakhstan launches probe into Epstein files
What happened
During a Mazhilis session on Wednesday, 25 February, MP Ashat Rakhimzhanov submitted an inquiry addressed to the Prosecutor General and the Chairman of the National Security Committee (NSC), requesting that they verify information about possible contacts between high-ranking Kazakh officials and Jeffrey Epstein.
In particular, Rakhimzhanov mentioned former Prime Minister and ex-NSC Chairman Karim Massimov, who is currently serving a sentence for high treason and an attempted seizure of power.
“Karim Massimov is mentioned in the records at least eight times. The records clearly show that Epstein and Massimov were personally acquainted,” the MP stated.
What the Prosecutor General’s Office said
Prosecutor General Berik Assylov reported that the agency is studying the published materials and verifying the facts.
“Of course, this is an important issue. The MP has only just submitted his request, but nevertheless the whole world is discussing this topic. Therefore we, as law-enforcement bodies, are reviewing this matter and checking these facts - whether they took place or not,” the Prosecutor General said.
Assylov did not name any specific individuals. However, when asked a follow-up question about Karim Massimov, he confirmed that a preliminary review has begun.
“We have started a preliminary review. The MP is asking whether Epstein came to Kazakhstan or not. This aspect is already being checked. As for whether Kelimbetov himself travelled or not — this will be checked additionally,” he said.
What are the Epstein files?
The Epstein files are a vast array of court documents, witness testimonies and contact lists related to the case of U.S. financier Jeffrey Epstein, who was accused of running an international network of sex trafficking and exploitation of minors. The main significance — and scandalous nature — of these materials lies in the fact that they contain the names of hundreds of influential figures: politicians, businessmen, academics and Hollywood stars who visited his private Caribbean island or flew on his plane. It is important to understand that the mere presence of a name in these lists or a recorded flight on Epstein’s plane is not direct proof of a crime; however, the publication of these data has shed light on how Epstein used his ties to the global elite to create an image of untouchability.
Among the most frequently mentioned figures are Britain’s Prince Andrew, former U.S. presidents Bill Clinton and Donald Trump, as well as many other public personalities. After Epstein’s death in prison and the conviction of his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, courts began gradually declassifying these documents, which continues to trigger waves of discussion in the media.