The Internal Affairs Directorate of Andijan Region, in collaboration with the State Security Service, uncovered a criminal gang engaged in assaulting people and street hooliganism during an operational search event on March 10. The gang leader is identified as 31-year-old Ismoilov Muhammadumar Bakhtiyor ogli (nickname “Umar”), a native of Asaka District, previously convicted under Articles 277 (Hooliganism), 110 (Torture), 112 (Murder or Threat of Violence), and 137 (Kidnapping) of the Criminal Code.
His accomplice is 33-year-old Ergashev Elmurod Begijon ogli (nickname “Elmish”), a native of Izboskan District, previously convicted under Articles 104 (Intentional Infliction of Serious Bodily Harm), 166 (Robbery), 168 (Fraud), 266 (Violation of Traffic or Vehicle Safety Rules), and 277 (Hooliganism) of the Criminal Code. According to investigative data, these individuals placed themselves above the law, deliberately violated public order, and exerted psychological and physical pressure on citizens.
Reports indicate that the suspects allegedly resolved property disputes among citizens for money in the form of “street justice” at a cafe named “Gaga” in Andijan city. Specifically, on February 23, they came to this cafe, insulted staff, assaulted a 19-year-old youth, causing him bodily injuries. It is also reported that they summoned a 33-year-old citizen they knew to the cafe, provoked a quarrel, and beat him in one of the cafe’s rooms.
A criminal case has been initiated under Part 3 of Article 277 of the Criminal Code (Hooliganism committed repeatedly or by a dangerous recidivist). The suspects have been detained procedurally and placed in custody, with investigative actions currently underway. Law enforcement agencies have called on citizens affected by the gang’s actions or with information about their illegal activities to contact trust hotlines, guaranteeing confidentiality.
In Andijan Region, operational measures targeting organized crime continue as part of the “Safe and Healthy Region” preventive campaign. Previously, the president approved proposals to establish liability for forming a criminal community to commit serious crimes, as well as to strengthen penalties for hooliganism and introduce administrative responsibility for participation in illegal competitions in combat sports.
According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, in January-February, 45 organized criminal groups were identified in Uzbekistan, with 116 cases of extortion, 315 cases of illegal weapon possession, 86 cases of organizing gambling establishments, 40 cases of human trafficking, and 790 cases of maintaining brothels uncovered, and 533 wanted persons detained.
Source: www.gazeta.uz