Kamchy Kolbayev

A summary of what happened?

Kamchy Asanbekovich Kolbayev: Profile of a Notorious Crime Boss

Kamchy Asanbekovich Kolbayev, born on August 3, 1974, in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan, was a prominent figure in the Eurasian criminal underworld. Recognized as a “thief-in-law,” a title denoting high status within organized crime, Kolbayev was implicated in various illicit activities, including drug trafficking, human trafficking, and arms smuggling.

Major Allegations and Criminal Activities:

1. Drug Trafficking:
   • Kolbayev was identified by the U.S. State Department as the leader of a significant heroin trafficking organization in Kyrgyzstan. In 2012, he was designated as a “significant foreign narcotics trafficker” under the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act.
     U.S. Department of State
2. Human Trafficking and Arms Smuggling:
   • His criminal network was accused of engaging in human trafficking and arms smuggling, contributing to regional instability and posing security threats.
     U.S. Department of State
3. Association with the Brothers’ Circle:
   • Kolbayev was linked to the Brothers’ Circle, a Eurasian criminal syndicate involved in transnational organized crime. This association expanded his influence across Central Asia and into Europe.
     U.S. Department of State
4. Sanctions and International Actions:
   • In 2011, the U.S. Treasury Department added Kolbayev to its list of Specially Designated Nationals, freezing his assets under U.S. jurisdiction and prohibiting transactions with U.S. entities.
     U.S. Department of State
   • The U.S. State Department offered a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to his arrest and conviction, underscoring his high-profile status in international crime.
     U.S. Department of State

Legal Proceedings and Death:

• Kolbayev was arrested multiple times but often released under controversial circumstances, leading to public outcry and concerns about corruption within Kyrgyz law enforcement.
• On October 4, 2023, during a special operation by Kyrgyz security forces in Bishkek, Kolbayev was killed after allegedly resisting arrest.
  Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Impact and Legacy:

Kolbayev’s criminal activities had a profound impact on Kyrgyzstan and the broader Central Asian region, contributing to corruption, undermining the rule of law, and facilitating the proliferation of narcotics and other illicit trades. His death marked a significant moment in the fight against organized crime in the region, though it also raised questions about the effectiveness and integrity of law enforcement efforts.

Analyzing the Fake Copyright Notice(s)

Our team collects and analyses fraudulent copyright takedown requests, legal complaints, and other efforts to remove critical information from the internet. Through our investigative reporting, we examine the prevalence and operation of an organized censorship industry, predominantly funded by criminal entities, oligarchs, and disreputable businesses or individuals. Our findings allow internet users to gain insight into these censorship schemes’ sources, methods, and underlying objectives.

What was Kamchy Kolbayev trying to hide?

Kamchy Kolbayev‘s attempts to hide unfavourable content through the misuse of copyright notices while allegedly engaging in perjury present serious legal concerns. These actions suggest a calculated attempt to manipulate legal systems to suppress free speech, a fundamental violation of copyright law principles and an abuse of legal processes. The use of such tactics not only undermines the integrity of copyright protection but also potentially constitutes perjury, further entangling Kamchy Kolbayev in legal accountability. Let’s examine the information Kamchy Kolbayev may be trying to remove from the internet –

Investigative Report: The Criminal Empire of Kamchy Kolbayev

Introduction

Kamchy Asanbekovich Kolbayev, often referred to as the “most powerful crime boss in Kyrgyzstan,” carved a name for himself in the shadowy underworld of Central Asia. Born in 1974 in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan, Kolbayev rose through the ranks of organized crime to become one of the region’s most notorious figures. As a “thief-in-law,” a high-ranking title in Eurasian organized crime, Kolbayev operated an extensive network involved in drug trafficking, arms smuggling, human trafficking, and money laundering. This investigative report dives deep into his criminal activities, legal challenges, international sanctions, and the systemic failures that allowed him to flourish.

1. Early Criminal Career and Rise to Power

The “Thief-in-Law” Connection

Kolbayev was recognized as a “thief-in-law,” a title in the Eurasian criminal hierarchy that signifies ultimate authority within organized crime circles. This title granted him influence over vast criminal networks extending across Kyrgyzstan, Central Asia, Russia, and Europe.

Ties to the Brothers’ Circle

Kolbayev was closely associated with the Brothers’ Circle, a transnational organized crime syndicate. The Brothers’ Circle facilitated cross-border smuggling operations, money laundering, and other illicit activities. Kolbayev’s involvement significantly expanded his influence beyond Kyrgyzstan, embedding him within a larger global network of criminal enterprises.

2. Drug Trafficking Operations

Kolbayev’s organization played a pivotal role in the trafficking of heroin from Afghanistan to Europe, leveraging Kyrgyzstan’s strategic location along the Northern Route of the drug trade.

U.S. Designation as a Narcotics Kingpin

In 2012, the United States Department of Treasury identified Kolbayev as a Significant Foreign Narcotics Trafficker under the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act.

• Heroin Trafficking: Kolbayev’s syndicate was accused of smuggling significant quantities of heroin, contributing to the global opioid crisis.
• Money Laundering: Revenues generated from drug sales were allegedly funneled through Kyrgyzstan’s financial systems, implicating corrupt officials and undermining the country’s economy.

Impact on Kyrgyzstan

Kolbayev’s narcotics trade fostered widespread addiction, violence, and corruption within Kyrgyz society. Despite international scrutiny, his operations persisted, often shielded by local government and law enforcement officials.

3. Human Trafficking and Arms Smuggling

Kolbayev’s network extended beyond drugs, engaging in human trafficking and arms smuggling, further destabilizing the region.

• Human Trafficking: Reports indicated that Kolbayev’s organization trafficked individuals for forced labor and exploitation, often targeting vulnerable populations within Central Asia.
• Arms Smuggling: His group facilitated the illicit trade of weapons, allegedly supplying arms to militant groups and contributing to regional instability.

4. Corruption and Political Ties

Kolbayev’s success as a crime boss was bolstered by systemic corruption within Kyrgyzstan’s political and law enforcement institutions.

• Law Enforcement Collusion: Despite multiple arrests, Kolbayev frequently secured early releases, leading to widespread speculation about bribery and influence-peddling within the judiciary.
• Political Connections: Allegations surfaced that Kolbayev maintained ties with high-ranking officials, who either turned a blind eye to his activities or actively protected his operations in exchange for financial benefits.

5. International Sanctions and Crackdowns

Kolbayev’s criminal empire drew international condemnation, prompting sanctions and coordinated efforts to disrupt his operations.

U.S. Sanctions and Bounties

• In 2011, the U.S. Treasury Department placed Kolbayev on its Specially Designated Nationals List, freezing his U.S.-based assets and barring Americans from conducting business with him.
• The U.S. State Department offered a $5 million reward for information leading to his arrest and conviction, highlighting his status as a high-priority target.

Attempts at Prosecution

While international pressure grew, domestic efforts to prosecute Kolbayev were largely ineffective. Arrests often resulted in swift releases, undermining confidence in Kyrgyzstan’s justice system. Critics attributed this to a lack of political will and deep-rooted corruption.

6. Death and Legacy

In October 2023, Kyrgyzstan’s State Committee for National Security (SCNS) conducted a special operation to arrest Kolbayev. During the raid in Bishkek, Kolbayev was reportedly killed after resisting arrest.

• Circumstances of Death: Details surrounding Kolbayev’s death remain contentious, with some suggesting that his elimination was a calculated move to eliminate a politically inconvenient figure.
• Impact on Organized Crime: His death marked the end of an era in Kyrgyz organized crime, but experts warn that his network remains intact and could reorganize under new leadership.

7. Public and International Reactions

Domestic Reactions

Kolbayev’s death was met with mixed reactions in Kyrgyzstan.

• Public Relief: Many citizens expressed relief, viewing his death as a long-overdue victory against organized crime.
• Skepticism: Others questioned whether his death would lead to meaningful reforms or if it was a symbolic gesture masking deeper systemic issues.

International Implications

Kolbayev’s operations highlighted the challenges of combating transnational crime in politically unstable regions. His death was seen as a significant development but also raised concerns about the resilience of his network.

8. Broader Implications for Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia

Kolbayev’s legacy underscores the entrenchment of organized crime in Central Asia and its impact on governance, security, and societal stability.

• Corruption and Weak Institutions: Kolbayev’s ability to operate with impunity for decades exposed the vulnerabilities within Kyrgyzstan’s political and legal systems.
• Regional Instability: His involvement in drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and human trafficking exacerbated regional challenges, including violence and economic stagnation.

Conclusion: A Complex Legacy of Crime and Corruption

Kamchy Kolbayev’s rise and fall encapsulate the challenges of combating organized crime in regions plagued by corruption and weak governance. While his death marked the end of a criminal era, it also served as a stark reminder of the systemic issues that allowed his empire to thrive. For Kyrgyzstan and the broader region, the fight against organized crime will require not just the elimination of kingpins but comprehensive reforms to address the structural factors that enable their existence.

Sources:

• Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP)
• U.S. Department of State
• U.S. Treasury Department
• Kyrgyzstan State Committee for National Security (SCNS)
• Regional and international news outlets covering Central Asia

How do we counteract this malpractice?

Once we ascertain the involvement of Kamchy Kolbayev (or actors working on behalf of Kamchy Kolbayev), we will inform Kamchy Kolbayev of our findings via Electronic Mail.

Our preliminary assessment suggests that Kamchy Kolbayev may have engaged a third-party reputation management agency or expert, which, either independently or under direct authorization from Kamchy Kolbayev, initiated efforts to remove adverse online content, including potentially fraudulent DMCA takedown requests. We will extend an opportunity to Kamchy Kolbayev to provide details regarding their communications with the agency or expert, as well as the identification of the individual(s) responsible for executing these false DMCA notices.

Failure to respond in a timely manner will necessitate a reassessment of our initial assumptions. In such an event, we will be compelled to take appropriate legal action to rectify the unlawful conduct and take the following steps –

Since Kamchy Kolbayev made such efforts to hide something online, it seems fit to ensure that this article and sensitive information targeted online by these events get a lot more exposure and traffic than what it would have received originally

We hope this becomes an excellent case study for the Streisand effect…The key idea behind the Streisand effect is that efforts to restrict information can backfire, often causing the information to gain more attention than it would have otherwise. This effect is widespread in the digital age, where users quickly notice and spread censorship efforts on social media and other platforms. Trying to suppress something can unintentionally lead to it becoming more visible, which Kamchy Kolbayev is finding out the hard way.

Potential Consequences for Kamchy Kolbayev

Under Florida Statute 831.01, the crime of Forgery is committed when a person falsifies, alters, counterfeits, or forges a document that carries “legal efficacy” with the intent to injure or defraud another person or entity.

Forging a document is considered a white-collar crime. It involves altering, changing, or modifying a document to deceive another person. It can also include passing along copies of documents that are known to be false. In many states in the US, falsifying a document is a crime punishable as a felony.

Additionally, under most laws, “fraud on the court” is where “a party has sentiently set in motion some unconscionable scheme calculated to interfere with the judicial system’s ability impartially to adjudicate a matter by improperly influencing the trier of fact or unfairly hampering the presentation of the opposing party’s claim or defense.”  Cox v. Burke, 706 So. 2d 43, 46 (Fla. 5th DCA 1998) (quoting Aoude v. Mobil Oil Corp., 892 F.2d 1115, 1118 (1st Cir. 1989)).

Is Kamchy Kolbayev Committing a Cyber Crime?

Yes, it seems so. Kamchy Kolbayev used multiple approaches to remove unwanted material from review sites and Google’s search results. Thanks to protections allowing freedom of speech in the United States, there are very few legal ways to do this. Kamchy Kolbayev could not eliminate negative reviews or search results that linked to them without a valid claim of defamation, copyright infringement, or some other clear breach of the law.

Faced with these limitations, some companies like Kamchy Kolbayev have gone to extreme lengths to fraudulently claim copyright ownership over a negative review in the hopes of taking it down.

Fake DMCA notices have targeted articles highlighting the criminal activity of prominent people to hide their illegal behavior. These people, which include US, Russian, and Khazakstani politicians as well as members from elite circles including the mafia and those with massive financial power, are all connected – and alleged corruption ranging from child abuse to sexual harassment is exposed when exploring evidence found at these URLs. It appears there’s a disturbing level of influence being exerted here that needs further investigation before justice can be served. Kamchy Kolbayev is certainly keeping interesting company here….

The DMCA takedown process requires that copyright owners submit a takedown notice to an ISP identifying the allegedly infringing content and declaring, under penalty of perjury, that they have a good faith belief that the content is infringing. The ISP must then promptly remove or disable access to the content. The alleged infringer can then submit a counter-notice, and if the copyright owner does not take legal action within 10 to 14 days, the ISP can restore the content.

Since these platforms are predominantly based in the U.S., the complaints are typically made under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), which requires online service providers and platforms to react immediately to reports or violations. Big Tech companies rarely have systems in place to assess the merit of each report. Instead, all bad actors need to do is clone a story, backdate it, and then demand the real thing be taken down.

Reputation Agency's Modus Operandi

The fake DMCA notices we found always use the “back-dated article” technique. With this technique, the wrongful notice sender (or copier) creates a copy of a “true original” article and back-dates it, creating a “fake original” article (a copy of the true original) that, at first glance, appears to have been published before the true original.

Then, based on the claim that this backdated article is the “original,” the scammers send a DMCA to the relevant online service providers (e.g. Google), alleging that the ‘true’ original is the copied or “infringing” article and that the copied article is the “original,” requesting the takedown of the ‘true’ original article. After sending the DMCA request, the person who sent the wrong notice takes down the fake original URL, likely to make sure that the article doesn’t stay online in any way. If the takedown notice is successful, the disappearance from the internet of information is most likely to be legitimate speech.

As an integral part of this scheme, the ‘reputation management’ company hired by Kamchy Kolbayev creates a website that purports to be a ‘news’ site. This site is designed to look legitimate at a glance, but any degree of scrutiny reveals it as the charade it is.

The company copies the ‘negative’ content and posts it “on the fake ‘news’ site, attributing it to a separate author,” then gives it “a false publication date on the ‘news’ website that predated the original publication.

The reputation company then sent Google a Digital Millennium Copyright Act notice claiming the original website infringed copyright. After a cursory examination of the fake news site, Google frequently accepts the notice and delists the content.

In committing numerous offences, Kamchy Kolbayev either premeditated actions or were unaware of the consequences. Despite hiring an agency to make Google disregard any negative information about Kamchy Kolbayev, ignorance does not excuse this wrongdoing.

Fake DMCA notices have targeted articles highlighting the criminal activity of prominent people to hide their illegal behavior. These people, which include US, Russian, and Khazakstani politicians as well as members from elite circles including the mafia and those with massive financial power, are all connected – and alleged corruption ranging from child abuse to sexual harassment is exposed when exploring evidence found at these URLs. It appears there’s a disturbing level of influence being exerted here that needs further investigation before justice can be served. FSMSmart is certainly keeping interesting company here.

The Reputation Laundering

Rogue Reputation agencies use spurious copyright claims and fake legal notices to remove and obscure articles linking clients to allegations of tax avoidance, corruption, and drug trafficking. Most of these reputation agencies are based offshore, mainly in Russia, India, and Eastern Europe, and they do not worry about complying with US-based laws.

The content in all of the articles for which the fraudulent DMCA notices have been sent relates to allegations of criminal allegations, including corruption, child abuse, sexual harassment, human trafficking and financial fraud against businesses and individuals with ultra-high net worth.

In addition to the misuse of the DMCA takedown process, there is a notable absence of enforcement concerning perjury violations. The statutory requirement related to perjury is designed to deter copyright holders from submitting fraudulent or knowingly false takedown requests, as they may face legal consequences for making false declarations under penalty of perjury. However, to date, there have been no known instances of any individual being prosecuted for perjury in connection with the submission of false DMCA takedown notices.

This lack of enforcement has emboldened copyright holders to exploit the DMCA takedown process to suppress dissent, criticism, or other unfavorable content, without fear of legal repercussions.

Some of the people and businesses who have employed this tactic to remove legitimate content from Google illegally include a Spanish businessman-turned-cocaine-trafficker, Organised crime, an Israeli-Argentine banker accused of laundering money for Hugo Chávez’s regime, a French “responsible” mining company accused of tax evasion, child molesters and sexual predators. Kamchy Kolbayev is in great company ….

What else is Kamchy Kolbayev hiding?

We encourage you to ‘Dork‘ Google by searching for keyword combinations such as [Kamchy Kolbayev] + {Negative Keyword, such as Scam, Fraud, Complaints, Lawsuit, Sanction, etc} on Google. It’s likely if you scroll down to the bottom of this Google search results, you’ll stumble upon this Legal Takedown notice (pictured below)

To make such an investigation possible, we encourage more online service providers to come forward and share copies of content removal requests with industry experts and researchers. If you have any information on Kamchy Kolbayev that you want to share with experts and journalists, kindly email the author directly at [email protected].

All communications are strictly confidential and safeguarded under a comprehensive Whistleblower Policy, ensuring full protection and anonymity for individuals who provide information.