Prosecutors in western Kazakhstan have uncovered a major case of embezzlement involving a state-owned enterprise, with losses totaling 118 million tenge ($238,629).

According to the General Prosecutor’s Office, the accountant of the enterprise misappropriated budget funds on an especially large scale. Preliminary findings indicate that the suspect, who reportedly suffers from gambling addiction, diverted company money to place bets with bookmakers. Part of the stolen funds was also used to purchase a new car, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

Authorities have launched a pre-trial investigation under Article 189, Part 4, Clause 2 of Kazakhstan’s Criminal Code, which covers large-scale embezzlement. The case is being handled by special prosecutors. By court order, the suspect has been placed in pre-trial detention, and the vehicle purchased with the funds has been seized.

Officials say the case highlights the serious risks posed by gambling addiction, which can lead to financial crimes and significant damage to state interests. Prosecutors recalled that in 2025, 16 employees of various state bodies in the West Kazakhstan region were dismissed following supervisory actions related to participation in gambling.

The prosecutor’s office says it will continue systematic efforts to detect and prevent misuse of public funds, emphasizing its commitment to protecting state and public interests.