53 fugitives caught with firearms in Uzbekistan’s nationwide raid

The State Security Service (SSS) and the Ministry of Internal Affairs conducted large-scale operations, “Oriat” and “Qaradori,” across Uzbekistan from February 5 to 7, resulting in the detention of 53 wanted persons, the SSS press service reported.

During the operations, authorities initiated 269 criminal cases involving 339 individuals, while 119 people were brought to administrative responsibility. In the second stage of the “Qaradori” operation, 640 special raids targeted 1,401 individuals suspected of distributing, storing, and using narcotic substances. As a result, law enforcement seized 28 kilograms and 857 grams of various drugs, including heroin, opium, hashish, and synthetic substances, along with 9,421 psychotropic pills.

Additionally, 18 illegal firearms and 126 cold weapons were confiscated. Authorities also conducted preventive interviews with 656 individuals and issued official warnings to 234 people.

Previously, the SSS and the Ministry of Internal Affairs had conducted joint raids on establishments such as saunas, SPA salons, massage parlors, karaoke bars, hotels, hostels, and nightclubs. Those operations led to 93 criminal cases and the prosecution of 94 individuals.