Police exposes how the illegal kidney market works

Kazakhstanis who attempt to sell their organs most often do so through social media platforms and messaging apps, the country’s Ministry of Internal Affairs said in response to an inquiry from Kursiv.media.

«Most cases involve attempts to illegally sell kidneys, since this organ is frequently in demand for transplant operations,» the ministry said.

Penalties for illegal organ trade

The agency noted that coercion to remove human organs or tissues, as well as their illegal removal, is a serious criminal offense under Article 116 of Kazakhstan’s Criminal Code.

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Those found guilty can face five to 12 years in prison, along with confiscation of property.

Authorities monitoring social media

The ministry said it monitors the internet — including social media platforms and media reports — for signs of illegal organ trafficking.

If suspicious activity is identified, authorities launch investigations in cooperation with relevant government agencies, including the Ministry of Healthcare. Officials also review reports from nongovernmental organizations and other sources.

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Previously, Kursiv.media reported that attempts by Kazakhstanis to sell organs online have been increasing. In a recent case in the city of Kokshetau, authorities caught a man accepting money in exchange for his own organ.