Makhabat Tazhibek kyzy was arrested on 15 January 2024 by the State Committee for National Security together with ten other journalists. She was accused of organizing and encouraging mass unrest and attempting to commit crimes related to public disorder. The investigation took place in State Committee for National Security and police detention facilities. On 10 October 2024, the Leninsky District Court sentenced her to six years in prison, despite defense claims that the charges were politically motivated and unsupported by evidence. Court hearings were held behind closed doors, and requests for house arrest were denied. Prosecutors demanded sentences of up to six years for several defendants. The Supreme Court later upheld the verdict, making her sentence final. Human rights organizations condemned the trial as unfair and politically driven. During detention, Makhabat reported physical and psychological pressure, inadequate medical care, and harsh prison conditions.