Illegal gold mining ring dismantled in Navoi, authorities seize gold and equipment

The group, led by the head of a private company specializing in sports facilities in Karmana district, was found to be conducting unauthorized gold extraction and chemical processing on state reserve lands. Investigators said the operation involved foreign nationals and violated multiple laws, including those governing taxation, geology, environmental protection, and public safety.

During the raid, authorities seized 17.2 kilograms of a gold-silver alloy, 20 kilograms of semi-processed gold products, and 250 kilograms of enriched coal containing gold particles. Officials also confiscated over 280 tons of sand and ore, 230 liters of specialized chemicals, laboratory equipment for gold extraction, gas cylinders, special containers, and other tools used in illegal mining activities.

Investigators discovered that the group had artificially created four chemical ponds to extract gold, converting one hectare of land into an industrial production site. All materials and equipment were officially documented as evidence and sent for forensic examination.

Preliminary investigations are ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence and conduct pre-trial inquiries into the case.