Four Arrested in Smuggling Operation Through Uzbek-Kyrgyz Tunnel
Authorities Uncover Major Smuggling Operation via Underground Tunnel
In March 2024, a significant discovery was made by officers from the State Security Service’s Andijan regional department: a clandestine underground tunnel linking the “A. Navoi” neighborhood in Khanabad, Andijan, with the village of Bekobod in the Suzak district of Kyrgyzstan.
Criminal Activities Exposed
The tunnel, reportedly utilized by an organized criminal group for smuggling operations, was uncovered during an extensive investigation. A Kyrgyz national was apprehended while attempting to transport an astonishing 812 mobile phones valued at 5.95 billion UZS into Uzbekistan, along with 1.73 kilograms of low-grade gold items estimated at 1.56 billion UZS, out of the country. These illegal items were subsequently seized as evidence.
Authorities expanded their operation, uncovering connections to three Uzbek accomplices residing in Andijan and the Altinkul district. In total, another 1,380 mobile phones worth 2.84 billion UZS, alongside 32 headphones, 920 adapters, 338 USB-C cables, and 40 chargers, were confiscated in a bid to dismantle the smuggling operation.
Tunnel Specifications and Criminal Charges
The underground passageway was found approximately 18 to 20 meters below ground, measuring 60 to 70 centimeters in width, 170 to 180 centimeters in height, and stretching 300 to 350 meters in length. Investigators discovered that the smuggling network was organized with clear roles assigned by the Kyrgyz leader to various group members.
Consequently, a criminal case was initiated against the Kyrgyz national, leading to his conviction under Articles 182 and 223 of Uzbekistan’s Criminal Code. He received a six-year prison sentence. The accomplices were also found guilty under Article 182 and sentenced to five years each.
Seizure and Closure of the Tunnel
The court’s ruling included the confiscation of all smuggled goods and the property in Khanabad where the tunnel was located. Authorities proceeded to seal and demolish the tunnel. Additionally, a second underground tunnel discovered in another nearby house was also destroyed, with that property, along with its seized items, being confiscated for state benefit. The Uzbek national linked to that operation was similarly sentenced to five years in prison.
Ongoing Investigations
Investigators found that the mobile phones had been earmarked for distribution in shopping centers across Andijan and Tashkent. Authorities are currently pursuing further inquiries into the broader distribution network involved in this illicit operation.
This operation highlights ongoing challenges related to smuggling and organized crime in the region as authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to combat these illegal activities.
