Bukhara Deputy Hokim Detained in Bribery Case

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A deputy hokim of a district in Uzbekistan’s Bukhara region has been detained on suspicion of receiving a large bribe, the press service of the State Security Service said.

According to the agency, a farmer engaged in agricultural activity under a contract in Bukhara district approached the official requesting assistance in restoring irrigation water supply to farmland located in the “Kum Sulton” area. Water supply to these fields via the Kagan district had reportedly been cut off.

Investigators said the deputy hokim promised to restore the water supply and ensure that similar issues would not arise in the future. In exchange, he allegedly demanded US$15,000.

The official was detained while receiving the money.

A criminal case has been opened against him under points “b” and “v” of Part 2 of Article 210 of the Criminal Code of Uzbekistan, which provides liability for receiving a bribe.

Investigative actions are currently ongoing.