Dozens Injured Following Protest Against 'Increase' of Foreign Workers in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyz officials report that 28 people, including three foreign nationals, were injured in overnight clashes in Bishkek, the capital of the country, following a protest by citizens, mostly aged between 18 and 25, against the rise of migrant workers in the country. Kamchibek Tashiev, head of the National Security Committee, announced on Saturday, May 18, that the incident occurred during protests by citizens against the increase in foreign workers. The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kyrgyzstan stated that three foreign citizens were detained and a criminal case titled 'rioting' has been opened against them, adding that the clashes began after a video of a fight in the courtyard of a guesthouse in Bishkek involving 'foreigners' was circulated on social media. The ministry reported that the number of people gathering outside the guesthouse reached 'one thousand,' prompting police to go on alert. Health Minister Alimkadir Bishnaliyev also noted that three foreign citizens are receiving treatment after the clashes, without specifying their nationalities. The Pakistani embassy denied reports of three Pakistani citizens being killed, stating that '14 Pakistani citizens' were injured in the incident. The Pakistani government has been in contact with the Kyrgyz government to ensure the safety of its citizens in light of the recent clashes. Kyrgyz officials expressed regret over the violent clashes against foreign nationals, including Pakistani citizens, and committed to investigating and punishing those responsible. However, it seems that the head of the National Security Committee criticized foreign workers, stating that Kyrgyzstan is grappling with an 'influx' of illegal migrants, mostly from Pakistan and Bangladesh, many of whom 'violate the law.' Tashiev further accused Pakistani and Bangladeshi migrants of being among the 'lawbreakers.'