Emergency services inspector detained in Tashkent over bribery case

An inspector from the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Uzbekistan has been detained in Tashkent during an operative action after being caught accepting a bribe, according to the State Security Service.

Photo: Ministry of Emergency Situations of Uzbekistan

Authorities said the inspector, who was serving in the Yunusabad district, had promised to help secure a positive fire safety assessment for a private clinic located in the Almazar district. The official allegedly claimed he could arrange the approval through authorized colleagues.

In February, the inspector received UZS 6.5 million from the head of a limited liability company in exchange for this service. However, he failed to fulfill his promise and repeatedly delayed the process using various pretexts.

As a result, the business owner demanded the return of the money.

During a joint operation conducted by officers of the State Security Service and the prosecutor’s office, the inspector was detained while returning the money, with material evidence secured at the scene.

A criminal case has been initiated against the suspect, and a pre-trial detention measure has been applied. Investigative actions are currently ongoing.