Ministry of Internal Affairs reveals prison population statistics for the first time

Uzbekistan’s prison population currently stands at 47,432 inmates across 49 penal institutions, according to official data provided by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. During a press conference held on April 11, Otabek Satimbaev, Deputy Head of the Department of Execution of Punishment, emphasized that these statistical figures are no longer classified information.

Photo: gazeta.uz

Providing a breakdown of the current figures, Satimbaev noted that approximately 26,000 inmates are held in closed-type colonies, while more than 11,000 individuals are serving their sentences in open-type (settlement) colonies. He added that these indicators are subject to constant change as the legal system processes new cases and releases.

The representative also addressed progress regarding the reform of settlement colonies, a goal outlined by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during his 2020 address to parliament. At that time, the president proposed the gradual reduction of 25 settlement colonies within the republic.

Satimbaev clarified that since the presidential address, the number of such facilities has been reduced by five. He explained that while the plan involves a gradual reduction, it does not imply the total elimination of the system. Currently, 20 settlement colonies remain operational across the country and continue to carry out their functions.