Illegal gold mining ring dismantled in Navoi after causing massive state losses

Navoi law enforcement authorities have uncovered two major cases of illegal gold mining, resulting in the seizure of significant quantities of gold material, chemicals, and specialized equipment. Preliminary estimates indicate that the damage caused to state interests exceeds UZS 7 billion.

Photo: Frame from the video

In a joint operation conducted by the State Security Service and internal affairs agencies, officials dismantled a group involved in the unauthorized extraction of gold-bearing ores from state reserve lands and their subsequent chemical processing. Investigations revealed that the group was led by a 36-year-old resident of Pakhtachi district in Samarkand region. The individual had reportedly established a clandestine workshop by renting a poultry farm building in Karmana district.

During the raid, officers seized 200 kg of semi-finished gold, 200 bags of gold-bearing sand and stones, and 300 kg of chemical agents. Additionally, specialized laboratory equipment, gas cylinders, and various tools were confiscated as physical evidence.

A second case was identified in Navbakhor district, where the head of a local limited liability company (LLC) organized illegal mining activities within the territory of Sarmishsoy State Museum-Reserve. The individual reportedly used a forged permit to hire 19 workers for the operation.

Law enforcement seized 6 kg of semi-finished gold, over 430 tons of gold-bearing ore, chemicals, trucks, and specialized machinery from the site. Initial calculations suggest that mineral resources worth UZS 6.1 billion were plundered during this operation.

Criminal cases have been initiated regarding both incidents, and investigations are currently underway. Furthermore, authorities are working to determine the total extent of the damage inflicted on the local ecology and the environment.