Three suspected cyber fraudsters arrested in Navoi over UZS 336 million theft scheme

According to the regional Department of Internal Affairs, the investigation began after a resident reported that a large sum of money had been withdrawn from a bank card without authorization. According to investigators, the victim had received a malicious APK file from an unknown individual. After installing the application, the victim's personal data was compromised.

The suspects then allegedly exploited the victim's registration on the E-auksion electronic trading platform to gain access to the bank account and steal UZS 230 million.

The suspects were detained during an operational raid conducted as part of the nationwide Safe and Healthy Country preventive campaign. Three individuals were arrested on suspicion of involvement in the fraud.

Investigators said the group's activities extended beyond the initial case. The preliminary investigation found that the suspects had allegedly stolen a total of UZS 336 million from 21 victims across the country through similar cyber fraud schemes.

A criminal case has been opened under Part 4 of Article 169 of Uzbekistan's Criminal Code, which covers theft. The investigation is ongoing.