Kazakh pop star Kairat Nurtas arrested after airplane incident

Astana, Tengrinews.kz - Kairat Nurtas, one of the most famous pop stars in Kazakhstan, has been involved in a legal dispute.

The case involves two charges: minor hooliganism and intentionally causing slight bodily harm. These charges arise from an altercation that took place on June 4, where Nurtas allegedly struck a fellow passenger, Asylbek Bekkairov, on the head and in the eye during a flight. A medical report confirmed that Bekkairov sustained minor injuries.

Nurtas claims that he is the victim in this situation.

"I am the one who was harmed. I didn’t strike first, I was struck first. I am the victim," - stated singer.

Despite this, Nurtas admitted causing slight harm to Bekkairov in court. Star described the incident as a result of Bekkairov's aggression.

"The conflict started when my friend asked me to perform at a celebration, and I told him I was unavailable. He began swearing at me and hit me on the head twice. I did hit him back, but after that, I remained silent. He approached me again and struck me. That’s the entire situation. I wasn’t causing any trouble - I am the victim," - Nurtas explained.

Nurtas has requested a fine as a penalty, citing his busy schedule with upcoming concerts.

However, the court sentenced the singer to 15 days of arrest.