Agrobank Responds to Corruption Allegations Case

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Joint-stock commercial bank Agrobank has issued an official statement in response to information circulating on social media regarding alleged illegal activities involving a judge and a bank official.

The bank reported that, by decision of its management board, a working group has been established with the participation of compliance control units, the anti-corruption service, and the legal department. An internal investigation has been launched to establish all circumstances of the case.

According to preliminary internal findings, Agrobank stated that the corruption-related actions described in media reports are not connected to the bank’s activities or official responsibilities.

It was also noted that the individual referred to as a bank employee was on annual leave at the time of the incident and, according to available information, was detained by law enforcement agencies while receiving funds intended to be passed to a judge of the economic court of the Syrdarya region.

The statement emphasized that a criminal case was initiated on April 13, 2026, under relevant articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and that preliminary investigative actions are ongoing.

The bank called on the public to refrain from spreading unverified information until the investigation is completed, noting that premature conclusions could affect the institution’s business reputation and trust from international financial institutions and partners.

Agrobank reaffirmed its commitment to legality, transparency, and zero tolerance for unlawful activities, stating that it is fully cooperating with law enforcement bodies. Additional information will be provided following the completion of internal and investigative procedures.

Previously, the State Security Service reported the detection of illegal actions involving a judge of the economic chamber of the Syrdarya regional court and a senior official of Agrobank’s Gulistan branch.

According to investigators, the case was linked to the review of a cassation appeal in an economic dispute concerning the construction of a multi-storey building in Gulistan owned by a local entrepreneur. It was established that the judge allegedly conspired with an associate, a bank employee.

It is reported that, under the arrangement, the parties demanded US$7,500 from the entrepreneur in exchange for influencing the court decision.

During operational measures, the bank employee was reportedly found in possession of US$5,500, and after the court ruling in favor of the entrepreneur, US$3,600 was transferred to the judge, after which the illegal activities were stopped.