Criminal Case Opened Over Poaching in Surkhandarya Region

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — A criminal case has been opened in Uzbekistan's Surkhandarya Region over alleged illegal hunting in the Surkhan State Reserve. Three local residents are under investigation after allegedly opening fire at reserve personnel who attempted to detain them.

According to law enforcement authorities, the incident occurred in the Sherjon section of the Surkhan State Reserve while reserve personnel were patrolling the area. They encountered three armed men carrying hunting rifles.

Despite repeated orders to stop, the suspects allegedly ignored the lawful demands of the reserve personnel and opened fire at them. They then fled the scene, leaving their backpacks behind.

An inspection of the abandoned belongings uncovered butchered carcasses of two animals believed to have been taken during the alleged illegal hunt.

During operational search measures, investigators identified the three suspects. All case materials have been transferred to the Sherabad District Department of Internal Affairs.

A criminal case has been opened under Part 3 of Article 202 of Uzbekistan's Criminal Code. Initial investigative actions are ongoing.