An official from the Sergeli district gas supply department in Tashkent has been arrested for allegedly promising to legalize an illegally built commercial pavilion, according to the city police department.

The official demanded $16,000 from a citizen to arrange documentation for the unauthorized shop through acquaintances, plus an additional $5,000 for a permit to connect the store to the gas network — a total of $21,000.

The suspect was caught red-handed while receiving the requested money.

A criminal case has been opened under Article 168, Part 4, Item “a” (Fraud on an especially large scale) and Article 211 (Bribery) of the Criminal Code. Investigative actions are currently underway.

Source: www.gazeta.uz