Prosecutors expose UZS 38.3 billion cashback embezzlement scheme in Andijan

According to investigators, preliminary findings indicate that a citizen identified as Y.Q. and several accomplices acted in collusion to create fraudulent transactions involving five limited liability companies. The group allegedly issued fake electronic invoices claiming that other companies had supplied goods worth UZS 2.2 trillion to the firms.

The suspects then reportedly recorded fictitious sales through cash register systems and generated purchase receipts showing that the goods had been sold to consumers, despite no actual transactions taking place.

Using these receipts, they are accused of fraudulently claiming cashback payments through the Soliq Mobile application on behalf of 94,921 individuals, including people listed in the social protection register. Authorities say the scheme enabled the suspects to embezzle UZS 38.3 billion in budget funds through misappropriation and embezzlement.

A criminal case has been opened under Article 167 of the Criminal Code, which covers misappropriation or embezzlement, and Article 228, which concerns the production, forgery, sale or use of forged documents, stamps, seals and official forms. The investigation is ongoing.