Fate of unclaimed bodies: Look into Uzbekistan’s procedures

Recently, Kyrgyzstan proposed transferring unclaimed bodies to medical institutions if they remain unclaimed by relatives for 30 days. The proposal, initiated by Jogorku Kenesh deputy Zhildiz Sadyrbayeva, suggests that medical students could enhance their practical skills in anatomical studies, improving the quality of medical education and research.

To understand how this process is handled in Uzbekistan, we spoke with Sherzod Ruziev, Director of the Republican Scientific and Practical Center for Forensic Medical Examination. He discussed the procedures for unclaimed bodies, the role of forensic experts, and the center’s cooperation with law enforcement agencies.

Iqbol Ergashova, correspondent: Can you explain the procedure for handling unclaimed bodies in Uzbekistan?

Sherzod Ruziev, Director of the Republican Scientific and Practical Center for Forensic Medical Examination, Professor: Under Uzbek law, conducting examinations on human bodies outside of forensic investigations is illegal, and we do not transfer unclaimed bodies to universities. We are currently in Kyrgyzstan as part of a cooperative program, but we were not informed about this new initiative. However, I can confirm that they are planning to establish a scientific center based on our model.

In Uzbekistan, the handling of unclaimed bodies is regulated by Chapter V of the Ministry of Health’s Order No. 153, dated June 1, 2012. According to paragraph 68, forensic morgues can store unidentified bodies for no more than seven days. After this period, burial is arranged by the Internal Affairs Department or the prosecutor's office.

Under Article 10 of the Law “On Burial and Funeral Work,” local state authorities are responsible for burial arrangements. The deceased are prepared for burial following national and ethnic traditions, and, if needed, are placed in coffins provided by those carrying out the burial.

I.E.: What are the most common causes of death among bodies examined at forensic centers?

Sh.R.: Most commonly, forensic examinations involve individuals who have died in traffic accidents, including those struck by light or heavy vehicles. We also handle cases involving fatal falls from heights, falling objects, and accidental deaths caused by other incidents. Additionally, we frequently examine the bodies of individuals who have died from illness.

I.E.: Some claim that forensic medical experts "cooperate" with law enforcement agencies. What is your response to this?

Sh.R.: There is no such collusion. While forensic experts work with law enforcement agencies (LMAs), this collaboration is strictly governed by legal procedures. Each expert operates within a legal framework.

For instance, Article 172 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CPC) outlines the conditions for appointing an expert examination. It mandates that expert conclusions must remain within the expert’s area of knowledge. Article 173 specifies that expert examinations must determine the cause of death, as well as the nature and severity of injuries. Article 180 states that an inquiry officer or investigator must issue a decision to appoint an expert examination, or a court must issue a ruling. These documents must include:

• The reason for the examination;
• The evidence submitted for analysis, along with details on when, where, and how it was found;
• The specific questions the expert must answer;
• The name of the expert institution or the individual assigned to the case.

Furthermore, forensic expert activities are regulated by other laws, including Article 238 of the Criminal Code (Perjury) and Article 240 (Failure of criminal proceeding participants to fulfill their duties). These ensure objectivity in forensic investigations.

I.E.: What should individuals do if they are dissatisfied with a forensic medical examination’s conclusion?

Sh.R.: Under Article 176 of the CPC, a re-examination request can be submitted to law enforcement authorities if:

• The expert’s conclusion is not sufficiently supported by evidence;
• The reliability of the evidence is questionable;
• The examination was conducted with serious procedural violations.

I.E.: What qualifications and skills are needed to become a forensic medical expert? How does the nature of this work affect one’s mental well-being?

Sh.R.: A forensic expert must complete a medical degree, followed by a master’s program or clinical residency. To become a state-certified forensic expert, one must obtain a general profile certificate through a qualification exam. This profession requires not only in-depth medical knowledge but also familiarity with related disciplines.

Of course, forensic work can be physically and emotionally demanding. Many people ask, “Isn’t your job difficult?” Some assume that forensic experts need alcohol to cope, but that is a misconception. Our professionals relieve stress by spending time with family and engaging in sports or hobbies. Ultimately, the purpose of our work is to contribute to society, support our families, and raise future generations with integrity.

I.E.: Can you share a particularly unusual or memorable forensic case?

Sh.R.: Many cases stand out, but one in particular remains memorable. An elderly man’s body was brought in for examination, and toxicology tests revealed the presence of poison. The investigation revealed that his daughter-in-law had poisoned him. When asked why, she said, “If he had died sooner, all the wealth would have belonged to my husband and me. Also, I wouldn’t have to cook for him or wash his clothes.” Thanks to thorough forensic investigations, such crimes are uncovered, and justice is served.

I.E.: How does your center cooperate with other countries?

Sh.R.: We collaborate with all medical institutions in Uzbekistan and have established partnerships with forensic medical centers in Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Russia. Experts from these countries regularly visit us for training, and our specialists also travel abroad for knowledge exchange. Additionally, Tajik forensic experts are currently conducting research at our center through the Institute of Independent Research.