In the Bukhara region, a group consisting of a Turkish citizen and three Uzbek accomplices was apprehended while attempting to traffic a young female student abroad. According to reports from the “Ovoza” information program, the group members had deceived the first-year university student with plans to send her to Istanbul, Turkey, for the purpose of sexual exploitation.

The offenders were caught red-handed during the student’s airport check-in, though the specific airport was not disclosed. Their passports and flight tickets were seized as material evidence. This incident highlights the ongoing issue of human trafficking and prostitution in Uzbekistan, underscoring societal vulnerabilities.

A criminal case has been initiated against the group members under Part 2, clauses “d” and “k” of Article 135 of the Criminal Code (human trafficking committed by a group of persons by prior conspiracy with the aim of involving in prostitution). Preliminary investigation is underway, indicating the severity of the charges and potential legal consequences.

Previously, a similar case occurred at Tashkent International Airport, where an individual and accomplices were detained for attempting to send a woman to Istanbul for prostitution. Investigation revealed that this group had previously been involved in sending women abroad for intimate services. A criminal case on human trafficking was opened against the suspect, who was placed in custody.

Data from the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) of Uzbekistan shows that in January-February, 45 organized criminal groups were identified in the country, including 40 cases of human trafficking. Overall, 116 cases of extortion, 315 cases of illegal weapon possession, 86 cases of gambling establishment organization, 790 cases of brothel maintenance and HIV infection spread were uncovered. 533 individuals on the wanted list were arrested, reflecting law enforcement efforts but also pointing to persistent criminal challenges within society.

Source: www.gazeta.uz