Andijan Police Dismantle Suspected Organized Crime Group

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — An organized crime group suspected of extortion and threats against citizens has been dismantled in Uzbekistan’s Andijan region.

The operation was conducted by officers of the Criminal Investigation Department of the Andijan Regional Department of Internal Affairs together with the regional branch of the State Security Service.

According to law enforcement authorities, the group leader has been identified as Madumarov Sherzod, born in 1992, known by the nickname “Chikko”.

Among his alleged accomplices are Sobirov Abbos, born in 1997, previously convicted under Articles 168 and 277 of the Criminal Code, and Rustamov Utkir, born in 1998.

Investigators said the group had entered into a prior criminal agreement and engaged in illegal activities. In one case, they offered a citizen the option to purchase two iPhone 16 Pro smartphones in installments, with a total value of US$1,800.

After the payment deadline expired, the suspects allegedly claimed a two-day delay constituted a breach of terms and demanded US$3,800. When payment was refused or delayed, the victim reportedly received threats and insults, including threats of murder.

Law enforcement agencies also said the group may be linked to a series of extortion cases involving threats and psychological pressure against citizens.

A criminal case has been opened under Part 2, Clause “v” of Article 165 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Investigations are ongoing. Authorities urged victims to contact internal affairs bodies or call the emergency number 102.