Uzbekistan steps up fight against drug abuse and cybercrime

It was noted that drug-related crime is becoming one of the major global threats to humanity, with over 400 million drug users worldwide and around 300,000 deaths each year from drug-related causes. In Uzbekistan alone, more than 11,000 drug-related offenses have been detected since the beginning of the year, and about 2.5 tonnes of narcotic substances have been seized.

The president emphasized the need to tighten legislation aimed at preventing and eradicating drug abuse, particularly among young people. Special attention will be paid to dismantling drug laboratories, curbing online drug trafficking, and neutralizing criminal networks. Stronger criminal liability will also be introduced for officials who protect or facilitate such illegal activities.

As part of the National Program of Comprehensive Practical Measures for 2025–2026, more than 100 operational, preventive, and educational initiatives are planned to combat the illegal circulation of narcotics. The president approved the program and instructed responsible agencies to ensure continuous and coordinated efforts in this direction.

The meeting also discussed measures to counter cybercrime.

Currently, more than 31 million citizens in Uzbekistan use the internet, and the number of cybercrimes has increased 68 times over the past five years – with more than 46,000 cases registered in 2025 alone. The total material damage exceeded UZS 1.2 trillion.

The most common offenses include fraud involving bank cards, personal data, and electronic signatures. In many cases, personal information is stored in open access, leaving both individuals and businesses vulnerable to cyberattacks.

The president instructed the relevant bodies to strengthen the legal and technological framework for cybersecurity, introduce mandatory requirements for handling personal data, create a register of data operators, and increase liability for their misuse. He also proposed ensuring the 24-hour blocking of suspicious bank accounts and protecting citizens from fraudulent microloans.

The head of state approved measures to develop the Cybersecurity Center under the Ministry of Internal Affairs and to introduce new types of digital forensics to uncover cybercrimes.

Particular attention was given to digitalizing prosecutorial oversight and investigative processes. President Mirziyoyev stressed the need to establish a remote system for monitoring the legality of decisions made by government agencies and to fully digitize criminal proceedings – from the submission of complaints to the enforcement of court rulings.