Four Uzbek Citizens Detained in South Korea

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Four Uzbek citizens have been detained in South Korea on suspicion of financing and assisting Katibat al-Tawhid wal-Jihad (KTJ), a terrorist group operating in Syria, Yonhap reported, citing police in Gwangju.

According to investigators, one of the suspects, a man in his 30s, transferred cryptocurrency worth 6.3 million won, or about US$4,600, to the group starting in April 2025. KTJ has been included on the UN Security Council sanctions list since 2022.

Investigators also suspect the man of receiving cryptocurrency from the group during the same period. Police allege that he used the funds to purchase 11 used cars and two excavators with a combined value of 170 million won. The equipment was subsequently sent to Syria.

According to the investigation, the suspect had no formal ties to KTJ. However, police determined that he began supporting the group after being contacted by his younger brother, who is a member of the organization.

The man was detained in April after his name was added to Interpol’s Red Notice list. According to Yonhap, he ran a company engaged in exporting used vehicles.

Three other Uzbek citizens are suspected of assisting the main suspect in the case. Investigators believe, in particular, that they helped him find used vehicles.

After questioning by police, the three suspects were placed under precautionary measures that did not involve detention.

The investigation into the circumstances of the case is ongoing.