We express deep concern over the disappearance of Mr. Tilekmat Kudaibergen uulu (also known as Tilekmat Kurenov), a Kyrgyz civil rights activist and outspoken government critic, who went missing in Dubai on April 10, 2025. His whereabouts remain unknown, and no official investigation has yet been confirmed.
Freedom for Eurasia has previously reported on the situation of Tilekmat Kudaibergen uulu on November 19, 2024 and on January 15, 2025.
On April 10, he was last seen at Al Rahim Mosque in Dubai Marina around 4:30 PM local time.
He informed relatives that he would remain there until the evening prayer and then return home.
His internet connection remained active until 7:35 PM, but messages were not read.
By 8:30 PM, his phone was fully offline and he has not been heard from since.
Tilekmat Kudaibergen uulu has been the victim of provocations by the Kyrgyz authorities on several occasions while in Dubai. In particular, on November 11, 2024, a former member of parliament tricked Tilekmat Kudaibergen uulu into travelling to Dubai and stole his passport making it impossible for him to travel.
On November 18, 2024 he was arrested on false denunciation by Kyrgyz authorities on suspicion of drug possession.
On January 3, 2025 he was arrested on a false denunciation by Kyrgyz authorities that he was allegedly involved in fraud in Kyrgyzstan.
On March 18, 2025 he was again detained on false denunciation by Kyrgyz authorities on the basis of violation of UAE migration laws. Every time he has been released after providing evidence that these allegations by Kyrgyzstan authorities are false and politically motivated. Kyrgyz authorities have been actively trying to extradite Tilekmat Kudaibergen uulu and silence him because he was demanding transparency, justice and anti-corruption measures in Kyrgyzstan authorities.All these attempts by Kyrgyz authorities were rejected by UAE authorities due to insufficient legal grounds and suspected political manipulation.
Given this context, his sudden disappearance raises serious concerns about the possibility of a non-consensual removal or covert operation by Kyrgyzstan authorities, in violation of international and UAE laws.
We urge the UAE authorities to launch an investigation into Mr. Kudaibergen uulu disappearance, ensure full compliance with legal obligations under international law and guarantees of non-refoulement and protection from unlawful rendition. We ask for cooperation from independent observers and human rights monitors. We call on the international community and diplomatic missions to raise this case of transnational repression by Kyrgyz authorities and for independent human rights bodies to monitor developments and, if necessary, intervene.
Tilekmat Kudaibergen uulu’s life and safety may be at risk.
Silence is complicity.
For press or legal inquiries, please contact:
info@freedomforeurasia.org
