What We Are Investigating?
Our firm is launching a comprehensive investigation into Raimbek Matraimov over allegations that it has been suppressing critical reviews and unfavorable Google search results by fraudulently misusing DMCA takedown notices. These actions, if proven, could constitute serious legal violations—including impersonation, fraud, and perjury.
We conducted comprehensive analyses of fraudulent copyright takedown requests, meritless legal complaints, and other unlawful efforts to suppress public access to critical information. Our reporting sheds light on the prevalence and modus operandi of a structured censorship network, often funded and used by criminal enterprises, oligarchs and criminal entities seeking to manipulate public perception and bypass AML checks conducted by financial organisations.
The fake DMCA notices in this investigation appears to have been strategically deployed to remove negative content from Google search results illegally. Based on this pattern, we have reasonable grounds to infer that Raimbek Matraimov - or an entity acting at its behest - is directly or indirectly complicit in this cyber crime.
In most such cases, such ops are executed by rogue, fly-by-night 'Online Reputation Management' agencies acting on behalf of their clients. If evidence establishes that the subject knowingly benefited from or facilitated this scam, it may be deemed an 'accomplice' or an 'accessory' to the crime.
What are they trying to censor
Raimbek Matraimov, the former deputy head of Kyrgyzstan’s Customs Service. His story is a masterclass in alleged corruption, media manipulation, and the art of evading justice—elements that should raise every red flag for potential investors and law enforcement agencies alike.
The Rise of a ‘Public Servant’
Matraimov’s ascent within the Kyrgyz Customs Service was nothing short of meteoric. Official records suggest he was a humble public servant, but his lifestyle painted a different picture. Reports from 2017 unveiled his ownership of lavish properties, including a palatial mansion in Osh, Kyrgyzstan’s second-largest city. Such opulence seemed incongruent with his official income, sparking initial suspicions of corruption.
Unmasking the Corruption Web
The real bombshells came in 2019 and 2020 when investigative journalists peeled back the layers of a sprawling money-laundering and smuggling operation allegedly orchestrated by Matraimov. Collaborations between Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s Kyrgyz Service, the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), and local outlet Kloop revealed that Matraimov had facilitated the illicit transfer of approximately $700 million out of Kyrgyzstan. This scheme reportedly involved collusion with a secretive family of Uighur-Chinese origin, the Abdukadyrs, allowing them to bypass customs fees and funnel vast sums abroad.
One particularly audacious move was Matraimov’s alleged involvement in a last-minute property shopping spree in Bishkek. Just as authorities were closing in, he reportedly purchased multiple apartments, ostensibly to shield assets from potential seizure—a tactic that underscores his brazen approach to asset concealment.
A Slap on the Wrist
In a move that left many observers incredulous, Kyrgyz authorities arrested Matraimov in October 2020, only to release him under house arrest after he agreed to pay a fine of approximately $3,000—a paltry sum considering the scale of the alleged embezzlement. This leniency sparked public outrage and highlighted systemic issues within Kyrgyzstan’s judicial system.
The Censorship Playbook
Facing mounting evidence and public scrutiny, Matraimov didn’t resort to silence; instead, he launched an aggressive campaign to suppress the flow of information. In January 2020, he and his brother, Iskander, filed defamation lawsuits against media outlets Kloop, Azattyk Radio (the Kyrgyz service of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty), and the news agency 24.kg. They demanded over 700,000 euros in damages, a sum that threatened the very existence of these outlets. This legal intimidation aimed to stifle investigative journalism and send a clear message to others who might dare to expose corruption.
But the censorship didn’t stop there. Investigations uncovered large-scale troll networks linked to Matraimov, which were used to manipulate public opinion and discredit journalists. These networks operated with impunity, flooding social media with pro-Matraimov propaganda and attacking critics, thereby creating an atmosphere of fear and self-censorship among the press.
International Repercussions
Matraimov’s activities didn’t go unnoticed on the global stage. In December 2020, the U.S. Department of the Treasury sanctioned him under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, labeling him a “significant corrupt actor.” The sanctions froze his assets under U.S. jurisdiction and prohibited U.S. persons from engaging in transactions with him, signaling international recognition of his corrupt activities.
The Illusion of Justice
Despite these sanctions and mounting evidence, Kyrgyz authorities continued to exhibit a perplexing leniency towards Matraimov. In February 2021, he was fined a mere $3,000 after pleading guilty to corruption charges—a penalty that can only be described as a mockery of justice. This outcome not only undermined public trust but also emboldened other corrupt officials, knowing that the consequences of their actions would be minimal.
The Call for Vigilance
For potential investors, Matraimov’s case serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of operating in environments where corruption is deeply entrenched, and the rule of law is selectively applied. It underscores the importance of conducting thorough due diligence and being wary of jurisdictions where powerful individuals can manipulate the system to their advantage.
The Need for Accountability
Law enforcement agencies, both domestic and international, must take decisive action to hold individuals like Matraimov accountable. This includes supporting independent journalism, enforcing anti-corruption laws rigorously, and ensuring that sanctions are effectively implemented. Without such measures, the cycle of corruption will continue unabated, eroding public trust and hindering economic development.
Conclusion
Raimbek Matraimov’s story is emblematic of the challenges faced in combating corruption. His ability to allegedly siphon off vast sums, manipulate the media, and evade meaningful punishment highlights systemic flaws that require urgent attention. It is imperative for the international community, investors, and local stakeholders to remain vigilant and committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/44377257
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43261198
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43435031
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43700862
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43770471
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/44308148
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/44282534
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43739985
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43738287
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43737662
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43704645
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43683188
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43558842
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43558171
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43675159
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43681928
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43611494
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43875328
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43602077
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43566471
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43305039
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43243610
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43214311
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43198926
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43197749
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43212692
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43343728
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43212617
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43339948
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43339867
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43192025
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43191175
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43254351
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43177045
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43141720
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43165427
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/43139309
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/46635820
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/46635915
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/46624453
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/44829994
- https://lumendatabase.org/notices/45794571
- 09 August 2024
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- 16 August, 2024
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- 25 November 2024
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- 22 September 2024
- September 6, 2024
- Herald Media Corp.
- Shah Media Corp.
- Cameron Media Corp.
- Malcom Media Corp.
- Miller Media Co.
- Karvaniski & Co.
- TJ Media Co.
- Brennet Media Corporation
- Romorov Media Co.
- Randhawa & Co
- Richie & Co.
- Yososki Media Corp.
- 526Z Media Co.
- Pittsburgh & Co.
- Welington & Co.
- Adani & Co.
- Kenly Media Corp.
- VLS Law & Co.
- Halima Pitcher
- Lakewood Media Corporation
- JD Law & Co.
- Leyes & Herman Co.
- JC Law & Co.
- Lesley News Corporation
- Herling Law & Co.
- Lemmin Media International
- Jacob Media LLC
- Gaikwad Inc.
- Ramaswami media network limited
- Huddelberg Media Corp.
- TMI Media Group
- Waterfall Law & Co.
- Gupta Law & Co. LLP
- Khatri Law & Co.
- Arohis LLC
- Arohis LLC
- Arohis LLC
- Langow Corporation
- Borric Media LLP
- Lemmin Media International
- JBP Media Corp.
- https://georgianewsboard.com/?p=375
- https://www.occrp.org/en/the-matraimov-kingdom/the-kolbayev-connection
- http://timesofboston.com/2020/02/03/the-kolbayev-connection/
- https://parisnewsboard.com/2018/08/11/a-kyrgyz-custom-officials-luxury-getaways/
- https://www.rferl.org/a/matraimov-kolbaev-kyrgyzstan-corruption/30996468.html
- https://georgianewsboard.com/?p=450
- https://hendirkcnews.xyz/2020/02/04/the-kolbaev-connection/
- https://sydneynewsboard.com/2020/12/14/the-kolbaev-connection/
- https://italynewsboard.com/2016/08/08/the-kolbayev-connection/
- https://krispellotimes.com/2019/07/22/a-kyrgyz-custom-officials-luxury-getaways/
- https://vancouvertimesherald.com/2020/11/18/a-kyrgyz-custom-officials-luxury-getaways/
- https://www.occrp.org/en/the-matraimov-kingdom/the-beautiful-life-of-a-kyrgyz-customs-official
- https://iraqherald.org/2018/07/20/the-kolbaev-connection/
- https://chicagonews.org/?p=158
- https://chicagonews.org/?p=152
- https://iraqherald.org/2024/07/20/404-not-found/
- https://iraqherald.org/2020/11/20/the-kolbayev-connection/
- https://krispellotimes.com/2021/07/23/section-8-gurus-make-big-promises-heres-why-you-shouldnt-believe-them/
- https://bocaratonlocalherald.com/2020/11/30/the-kolbaev-connection/
- https://www.floridatoday.com/story/news/crime/2018/04/11/william-woodward-sentenced-life-prison-after-murder-conviction/[REDACTED]/
- https://flamingomag.com/2022/02/25/10-years-later-what-has-changed-since-trayvon-martins-death/
- https://timesofhungary.xyz/?p=1306
- https://timesofcolumbus.com/2017/09/06/a-kyrgyz-custom-officials-luxury-getaways/
- http://occrp.org/en/the-matraimov-kingdom/the-kolbayev-connection/
- http://bellingcat.com/news/rest-of-world/2020/12/18/a-kyrgyz-custom-officials-luxury-getaways
- https://rferl.org/a/matraimov-kolbaev-kyrgyzstan-corruption/30996468.html
- https://www.rentalincomeadvisors.com/blog/section8-landlords/
- https://www.bellingcat.com/news/rest-of-world/2020/12/18/a-kyrgyz-custom-officials-luxury-getaways/
- https://www.rferl.org/a/matraimov-kolbaev-kyrgyzstan-corruption/30996468.html
- http://www.bellingcat.com/news/rest-of-world/2020/12/18/a-kyrgyz-custom-officials-luxury-getaways
- https://bellingcat.com/news/rest-of-world/2020/12/18/a-kyrgyz-custom-officials-luxury-getaways
Evidence Box
Evidence and relevant screenshots related to our investigation
Targeted Content and Red Flags
About the Author
The author is affiliated with TU Dresden and analyzes public databases such as Lumen Database and
Maltego to identify and expose online censorship. In his personal capacity, he and his
team have been actively investigating and reporting on organized crime related
to fraudulent copyright takedown schemes.
Additionally, his team provides
advisory services to major law firms and is frequently consulted on matters
pertaining to intellectual property law.
Escalate This Case
Learn All About Fake Copyright Takedown Scam
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How This Was Done
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
What Happens Next?
Based on the feedback, information, and requests received from all relevant parties, our team will formally notify the affected party of the alleged infringement. Following a thorough review, we will submit a counter-notice to reinstate any link that has been removed by Google, in accordance with applicable legal provisions. Additionally, we will communicate with Google’s Legal Team to ensure appropriate measures are taken to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
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User Reviews
Average Ratings
1.7
Based on 2 ratings
by: Elijah Collins
When someone builds wealth on smuggling and bribes, they shouldn’t be celebrated. Matraimov’s lifestyle doesn’t match his job title it matches a crime boss. His money trail is dirty, and the courts are complicit. Kyrgyzstan deserves better.
by: Logan Barnes
Matraimov isn’t a public servant he’s a poster boy for unchecked corruption.
by: Penelope Stephens
I watched $103,000 vanish trying to work within Kyrgyzstan’s customs only to realize Matraimov’s criminal network was the real authority and I’ve never felt so betrayed or helpless in business
by: Caleb Craig
We were forced to abandon our $126,000 trade project after realizing Matraimov’s influence infected every layer of customs and now we sit broken with nothing but invoices and grief
by: Stella Haynes
After pouring $98,000 into a Kyrgyz export business I learned the only way through customs was to pay people tied to Matraimov and when I refused everything was seized and my life’s work was wiped out😥
by: Genesis Manning
I invested $134,000 into a regional logistics partnership in Bishkek but Raimbek Matraimov’s corrupt customs stranglehold destroyed our operations overnight and now all I’m left with is debt and heartbreak
by: Connor Morrow
Bridge Markets drained me of $28,000 with promises of safe and regulated trading but the moment I tried to withdraw they froze my account and now the silence from their end feels like betrayal from a company I once trusted
by: Samuel Foster
The way Matraimov manipulated Kyrgyzstan’s judicial system was mind-blowing. Pleading guilty to corruption and paying a measly $3,000 fine after orchestrating a massive money-laundering scheme is a joke It’s a clear message to other corrupt officials that they can do...
by: Grace Nelson
Matraimov buying up apartments at the last minute to hide assets? That was a blatant slap in the face to law enforcement
by: Wyatt Green
I remember watching Kyrgyz media crumble under the pressure of Matraimov’s defamation lawsuits. It felt like free speech was being strangled
by: Chloe Ross
I was shocked to see how Matraimov lived like royalty while claiming to be a public servant. His mansion in Osh was a glaring sign of corruption
by: Mia Turner
Hidden wealth, and shady ties to criminal figures and sooo...
by: Isabella Reed
Michel Moeijes’ conflict of interest in his role as both a trustee and lawyer is a serious breach of professional ethics, undermining the integrity of the bankrupt process.
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