Pavel Durov, founder of the Telegram messaging app, has been reported to face a potential fine of up to $70 for swimming in a restricted area of the Kolsai Lakes Nature Reserve in Kazakhstan. The incident was disclosed by Alexey Milyuk, deputy chairman of the Administrative Police Committee of Kazakhstan’s Interior Ministry, on October 13.
Milyuk stated that the location is a highly protected natural zone and confirmed that administrative proceedings have been initiated. He noted that the Ministry of Ecology of Kazakhstan holds authority over penalties for such violations. When questioned about potential consequences for Durov, Milyuk indicated that a warning in the form of a fine equivalent to ten monthly calculation indices—approximately $70—could be issued.
Footage of Durov swimming in the Kolsai Lakes Reserve surfaced on October 7, with the entrepreneur sharing it on his Telegram channel. The video features snow-capped mountains and traditional music, while the park administration condemned the act as an administrative offense, citing a potential fine. It was later reported that the park would conduct an internal investigation into the incident.
