The Department for Combating Economic Crimes under the General Prosecutor's Office has conducted a pre-investigation check, revealing serious financial irregularities in the activities of the Hududgaz Karakalpakstan gas supply branch.

The inspection found a significant discrepancy between the volume of natural gas received and delivered to consumers. Officials, without investigating the true causes of this discrepancy, simply recorded it as ordinary losses, causing damage to the state and society amounting to 251.5 billion soums.

The department's office in Karakalpakstan uncovered evidence of embezzlement or misappropriation of a large portion of natural gas, as well as abuse of official powers by the branch's management.

A criminal case has been initiated under Articles 167 (Embezzlement or misappropriation) and 205 (Abuse of power or official authority) of the Criminal Code. Investigative actions are currently underway to identify those responsible.

This incident highlights the weak oversight and pervasive corruption in the country's energy sector. The public expects a transparent and fair resolution of this case.

Source: www.gazeta.uz