Astana's 'Stop Vandal' Raid: City Cracks Down on Graffiti and Property Damage

Astana Steps Up Anti-Vandalism Efforts: A 'Stop, Vandal' Raid in Action Astana, Kazakhstan is taking a firm stance against vandalism, as evidenced by a recent "Stop, Vandal" raid. The operation, which took place on May 24th, 2025, involved local authorities and police interacting with young people, primarily those seen riding BMX bikes in the city center. The raid was filmed by local blogger Timurasylhanov, whose video provides a unique perspective on the event. The video shows police engaging in dialogue with the youth, and later, an interview with a representative from the city administration. The official stated, "From the beginning of the year, we've identified 14 instances of property damage, and all those involved have been held accountable." This demonstrates the city's proactive approach to addressing vandalism and enforcing consequences. The video itself offers a visual record of the raid, showing both the interactions between authorities and the young people, and the overall atmosphere of the event. While some might see the situation as potentially heavy-handed, the city's commitment to preserving public spaces is evident. The event underscores Astana's efforts to foster a safe and well-maintained environment for all its citizens.