Massive fraud exposed: 400 fake construction licenses issued in Almaty
A major fraud investigation has uncovered a criminal scheme in Almaty involving over 400 illegally obtained construction licenses. Authorities revealed that first-category permits in architecture, urban planning, and construction were issued without meeting any legal requirements. The case centres on collusion between applicants and officials from the city's Urban Planning Control Department. The fraudulent operation relied on falsified documents to secure the licenses. Applicants submitted fake records claiming access to industrial facilities, specialised equipment, and qualified staff—none of which existed. Instead of following standard procedures, the permits were granted through bribes and insider cooperation.
Payments for these illegal services ranged from 2 million to 5 million tenge per license. During raids, investigators seized evidence confirming the scheme, including documents and financial records. However, it remains unclear how many of the fraudulent permits were actively used by Almaty-based companies before the operation was exposed. The investigation continues under Article 201 of Kazakhstan's Criminal Procedure Code, restricting further public details at this stage.
The case highlights systemic failures in license verification processes. All 400 permits were issued despite none of the applicants meeting qualification standards. Authorities are now reviewing the broader impact on construction oversight in the region.
