Safety in Almaty

Hi everyone,

My wife and I are form Canada and just accepted a job in Almaty and we were wondering if anyone could answer a few questions regarding safety and housing in Almaty. I have been reading about local police hassling foreigners by stopping them on the street and checking their documents. People are saying that the police will usually find something wrong with your documents (even though there isn't) and take you to the station or an apartment and give you trouble until you bribe them. Does this actually happen?

Also my company is offering accommodation allowance for up to Protected content . Would that be enough to get a nice apartment? Also is it necessary to get an apartment with security downstairs?

I would appreciate it if anybody can answer these questions.

Thanks