Authorities in Kyrgyzstan have detained three individuals who signed a public appeal demanding snap presidential election.

Some 75 citizens named in the appeal were brought to the Interior Ministry’s investigative service as part of an ongoing probe, The Caspian Post reports via Kyrgyz media.

Officials identified three individuals, 66, 71 and 71 - as initiators and active participants in what investigators describe as preparations for mass unrest. They have been placed in a temporary detention facility.

Searches were conducted at the suspects’ homes, and the investigation is continuing.

The Interior Ministry recalled that on February 9, information circulated online and in media outlets that 75 citizens had addressed an appeal to President Sadyr Japarov and Speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh Nurlanbek Turgunbek uulu, urging the immediate initiation of new presidential election.

The appeal was reportedly signed by academics, former prime ministers, ex-members of parliament, and public figures.

A criminal case has been opened under Article 278 of Kyrgyzstan’s Criminal Code (“Mass Riots”). Authorities have not disclosed further details as legal proceedings continue.