The Department under the General Prosecutor's Office of Uzbekistan has uncovered a large-scale embezzlement of budget funds in Tashkent. According to the investigation, officials from JSC 'Hududgazta'minot', LLC 'Technopark', and other entities conspired to steal 19 billion soums (approximately $1.5 million).

The funds were allegedly allocated for the technical maintenance of electronic gas meters. However, investigators believe that the money was siphoned off through fraudulent contracts and shell companies, leaving the meters without proper service.

Furthermore, 273 gas meters produced by LLC 'Technopark' and installed by JSC 'Hududgazta'minot' were found to be tampered with, showing lower readings than actual consumption. This manipulation caused an additional damage of 861.1 million soums (about $69,000) to the state and the public.

A criminal case has been initiated, and a thorough investigation is underway. Authorities are working to identify all individuals involved in the scheme and to recover the stolen funds.

This scandal highlights persistent corruption issues in Uzbekistan's utility sector, raising concerns about the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures. The government has pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice and to strengthen oversight in the energy sector.

Source: uznews.uz