Distorting videos of traffic officers on social media may lead to legal consequences – MIA

Authorities have reported that videos of Road Traffic Safety Service officers are being manipulated — certain parts are removed, defamatory content or movie scenes are added, and the altered footage is then circulated on social media. In response, fines and administrative detention have been introduced for the deliberate distortion and distribution of law enforcement officers' photos and videos.

According to amendments to the Code of Administrative Responsibility, which came into force on February 21, anyone who distributes photos or videos of law enforcement officers performing their duties in a way that damages their reputation may face a fine of 50 times the base calculation unit or up to 10 days of administrative detention.

During a press conference on February 25 with the leadership of the Road Traffic Safety Service at the Agency for Information and Mass Communications, a Kun.uz reporter asked officials for clarification on what exactly constitutes the dissemination of videos intended to discredit officers.

“One of the key concerns sparking public debate is the introduction of penalties for spreading photos and videos of Road Traffic Safety Service officers in a way that harms their reputation. However, the term "discrediting" remains vague. For example, if someone posts about their rights being violated by a Road Traffic Safety Service officer, would this be considered discrediting? Would individuals who leave negative comments on such posts also be held accountable?” the reporter.

Erali Bozorov, Deputy Head of the Road Traffic Safety Service:

“I will try to clarify. The law specifically addresses the act of distorting photos and videos. For example, if someone records a video, then edits it by adding scenes from a movie or manipulating the footage to misrepresent the situation, this would be considered a violation. If such actions are identified...

“It is important to understand that this law applies not only to Road Traffic Safety Service officers but to all law enforcement personnel. If it is proven that a video has been deliberately altered to create a misleading impression...

“Additionally, I want to emphasize that if Road Traffic Safety Service officers engage in misconduct, any recorded footage or evidence can be freely submitted to our Internal Security Service or our leadership. If an officer issues an unlawful report, individuals can file an online complaint. If the officer is found guilty of wrongdoing, disciplinary measures will be taken.”

Azizkhon Murodov, Road Traffic Safety Service Officer:

“The law targets the intentional manipulation of videos and photos. From experience, we see that many videos circulating on social media do not show the full incident. Instead, only select moments — such as an argument — are highlighted, while other footage is cut out.

“Additionally, scenes from movies, stickers, or defamatory elements may be added to distort the context and damage the officer’s reputation. These manipulated videos are then widely shared on social media.

“The law specifically addresses such cases, and if proven, penalties will be enforced.”