Deputy Hokim of Khavast District Detained on Extortion Charges

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — In the Syrdarya region, the deputy hokim of Khavast District has been detained on suspicion of corruption-related activities, the press service of the State Security Service (SSS) reported.

According to law enforcement, the official colluded with a specialist from the district department of the regional Investment, Industry, and Trade Administration. In the summer of 2025, they allegedly received US$10,000 from the head of a farming enterprise in exchange for including the farm in the rice cultivation plan, confirming the fulfillment of the export plan, and providing “protection” during an alleged SSS inspection.

Later, the deputy hokim demanded an additional US$20,000, threatening land confiscation and criminal prosecution. He was caught in the act while receiving the payment through an intermediary.

A criminal case has been opened against both suspects under Article 165, Part 3, Paragraph “a” of the Criminal Code of Uzbekistan (extortion). Both individuals have been remanded in custody.