Illegal gold mining worth 15 billion sums uncovered in Navoi region (video)

Individuals involved in the illegal extraction of gold-bearing rock worth a total of 15.5 billion sums have been detained in Navoi region. The regional Department of Internal Affairs reported the case.

According to the report, a criminal group began illegal gold mining operations in the summer of 2025 in land plots located in the Sarmishsoy mountain range, within the Qalqonota mahalla of Navbahor district. The group reportedly operated for several months, during which they set up artificial ponds and dumping sites for mining activities. In October 2025, a special operation was carried out jointly by the Internal Affairs Ministry’s Department of Personal Security for Navoi region, the regional Criminal Investigation Service, and the Navoi regional department of the State Security Service, resulting in the detention of the illegal miners.

It was noted that sand heaps, ponds, dumping areas, and various items containing signs of criminal activity were documented and seized in accordance with legal procedures. Investigations revealed that the suspects had extracted rock containing 9 kilograms and 928 grams of gold, with a total estimated value of 15 billion 551 million 219 thousand sums.

A criminal case has been initiated by the Investigation Department under the Navoi Regional Department of Internal Affairs under Part 3, Clause “a” of Article 196-2 of the Criminal Code, which covers the unauthorized extraction of mineral resources using artisanal mining methods. Investigative actions are currently ongoing. Law enforcement agencies are also continuing operational inquiries to identify other crimes linked to the organized criminal group, as well as to determine its members and their respective roles.

It is worth noting that earlier, members of a criminal group involved in the illegal trade of precious metals were detained in Tashkent region. During searches of their residences, law enforcement officers seized a total of 17.5 tons of sand and stones containing precious metals, processing equipment, 135 grams of gold, 25 grams of marijuana, one hunting firearm, and 42 rounds of ammunition.