KAZAKHSTAN. Almaty. January 2022. Basila, 80, was waiting outside of the Isolation Ward temporary detention center. She was accompanying her granddaughter Lyailim in her search of her husband Timur Kim (38). He was detained at his home after the violent protests started on January 4th. Their lawyer confirmed Timur was in this detention center.

It was hard for Basila to walk on the frozen and icy ground, and she had to be accompanied by one of the relatives to make sure she does not fall. But she was determined to go everywhere and do everything she can, to help Timur, who she considers her to be grandson.

225 people were killed (including soldiers and police officers) and 4,578 wounded; nearly 12,000 people have been detained in Kazakhstan in massive riots across the country, according to authorities.