New law may bar crime suspects from leaving Uzbekistan

During a session of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis on Wednesday, the draft law aimed at improving the system of coercive measures in criminal proceedings was passed in the first reading.

Deputies pointed out that individuals who have committed crimes but have not been placed in custody often leave the country to evade investigation, inquiry, or trial. As a result, the ability to restore the victims' rights and compensate for the damage caused is diminished.

The draft law proposes amendments to certain legislative acts to establish a procedure for temporarily restricting the right to leave the country for suspects, accused individuals, or defendants who have not been placed in custody, but where there are sufficient grounds to believe they may leave the country without a valid reason.

In such cases, investigators, interrogators, prosecutors, or courts may temporarily restrict their right to travel abroad.

"The adoption of this draft law will help protect the constitutional rights and freedoms of the victim, as well as prevent harm to their legitimate rights and interests," the deputies emphasized.