Security and customs officers foil attempt to smuggle gold bars out of Uzbekistan

Authorities in the Fergana region have intercepted an attempt to illegally transport gold out of Uzbekistan, seizing gold bars worth more than UZS 2.18bn during a joint operation by security and customs officials.

The operation was carried out by officers of the Fergana regional department of the State Security Service in cooperation with customs authorities as part of efforts to prevent the illegal export of goods and material assets from the country.

During the operation, a Damas vehicle driven by a resident of Fergana district born in 1996 was inspected at the Vodil-Avto border customs post while attempting to leave Uzbekistan for Kyrgyzstan.

During the inspection, officers discovered four irregularly shaped gold bars concealed inside the body of the vehicle. The items were seized and documented as physical evidence.

According to an expert examination, the net weight of the gold bars was 1 kilogram and 232 grams. Their total value was estimated at UZS 2,182,466,000.

Following the incident, the investigation department of the State Security Service in the Fergana region opened a criminal case against the suspect under Article 182 of the Criminal Code – violation of customs legislation, Part 2, Clause “a”.

Investigative actions are currently underway.

Law enforcement authorities have also urged citizens to report similar violations by calling the short number 1520 of the State Security Service. Authorities assured that the confidentiality of callers will be guaranteed.