Investigation launched after alleged police misconduct in Namangan (video)

Reports have surfaced on social media alleging that police officers in Namangan region conducted an unlawful search of a citizen’s residence. The regional Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) has issued a response to these claims.

According to the statement, on February 25–26, law enforcement agencies jointly conducted preventive measures to address crime, study public concerns, and ensure community safety in border areas of the Uchkurgan district. These efforts included outreach campaigns and raids.

During this operation, residents were engaged in discussions, and awareness was raised about avoiding the storage of illegal goods in their homes. The statement emphasized that any visits to private homes were carried out with the residents’ consent.

Under Article 17 of the “Law on Internal Affairs,” law enforcement officers are authorized to enter residential or land properties with the owner's consent to ensure public safety and prevent crime.

However, the statement noted that on February 26, certain officers involved in the operation misinterpreted the nature of the campaign. This led to situations shown in the viral video that caused public criticism. An internal investigation is now underway to address the actions of the officer responsible for the misunderstanding and its dissemination on social media.

The DIA clarified that no investigative or procedural actions, including searches, were carried out during this campaign. The purpose of the operation was to ensure personal and public safety and prevent crime.

As per criminal procedural law, a “search” is a legally distinct investigative action conducted to locate and retrieve items, documents, or digital data relevant to a criminal case. Searches involve detailed inspections of all areas, furniture, and storage spaces in a residence, and require proper documentation.

The statement also highlighted the responsibility of media outlets under Article 12(1) of Uzbekistan’s “Law on Information.” Media must verify the accuracy of any information before publishing it online for public access. Social media users and media outlets were urged not to misinterpret measures taken for public and community safety.