Security forces foil drug and human trafficking schemes in Uzbekistan

The State Security Service (SSS) and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Uzbekistan have detained five individuals involved in drug trafficking and human trafficking during the “Oriat” and “Qaradori” operations, held between February 5-7. This was reported by the press service of the State Security Service.

As part of an anti-drug operation, security forces monitored Telegram and received information that one kilogram of synthetic drugs had been hidden in the Yukorichirchik district of Tashkent region using the “zakladka” method (hiding drugs for later retrieval). Based on this intelligence, officers detained two suspects (born in 1986 and 2002) while they were retrieving the drugs. A search of a Mirabad district residence linked to one of the suspects revealed 200 grams of synthetic drugs, electronic scales, insulating tape, and zip-packs prepared for further distribution.

Additionally, in an anti-human trafficking operation, a Turkish citizen (born in 1986) and two Uzbek citizens were arrested while attempting to traffic two women to Istanbul via Tashkent International Airport for sexual exploitation.

It should be noted that during the "Oriat" and "Qaradori" events, authorities conducted raids on public establishments such as saunas, SPA salons, massage parlors, karaoke bars, hotels, hostels, and nightclubs. A total of 93 criminal cases were initiated, leading to 94 individuals being charged. Authorities also seized 18 illegal firearms, and 126 cold weapons, and detained 53 wanted criminals. In a separate incident in Tashkent, an individual was caught in possession of a Makarov pistol, two bullets, and 15 live cartridges.