Uzbek authorities have shut down a network of Telegram bots used for the illegal sale of narcotics and psychotropic substances. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the scheme was organized by a former professional footballer who had been convicted for a similar crime just two months ago.

The operation was carried out by the Operational Search Department of the MIA together with regional units as part of the preventive measures 'Safe and Healthy Country'.

The suspect, a 27-year-old man, previously played for a professional football club. After retiring from sports, he worked as a physical education instructor at a children's health camp. Investigators believe he resumed the operation of several Telegram shops selling drugs.

Law enforcement established that the suspect converted money from drug sales into cryptocurrency and transferred it through his own account on a crypto exchange. Over 550 million soums were transferred to various crypto wallets during the illegal activity.

The MIA noted that the man had been convicted under Article 278-8 of the Criminal Code two months ago but failed to draw conclusions and reorganized the illegal drug trade.

A criminal case has been opened under paragraph 'a' of Part 2 of Article 278-8 of the Criminal Code for repeated commission of the crime. Investigative actions are ongoing.

The ministry also urged citizens to report drug trafficking incidents via the Stop Narkobot Telegram bot or hotline numbers.

Source: podrobno.uz