The chief inspector of the tax inspection in the Fergana district of Fergana region, Uzbekistan, was detained while receiving a bribe. This was officially reported by the State Security Service (SSS). The swift operation was conducted in collaboration between the SSS and the Ministry of Internal Affairs' department for Namangan region.

According to the investigation, the perpetrator, through acquaintances in high positions, promised a businessman from Namangan to allocate 10 hectares of land from the reserve of the Fergana district hokimiyat, intended for agriculture, for the future establishment of a tourist center. In return, he demanded $95,000, plus an additional $6,000 for changing the land category, totaling $101,000.

During the operation, the perpetrator was caught with material evidence while receiving an advance payment of $20,000. This case highlights the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures in Uzbekistan but also underscores the persistent challenges of graft within the state apparatus, raising questions about systemic vulnerabilities.

In connection with the incident, the prosecutor's office of Namangan region has initiated a criminal case under Part 4, Article 168 "a" of the Criminal Code (Fraud on an especially large scale) and Part 2, Article 28, 211 "a" (Involvement in bribery), with detention as a preventive measure. Investigative actions are currently underway, suggesting that further individuals may be implicated as the probe continues.

Source: www.gazeta.uz