Kokand Police Bust Extortion Group in US$842,000 Case

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Authorities in the city of Kokand in Uzbekistan’s Ferghana region have dismantled an organized group suspected of systematically extorting money from a woman, law enforcement agencies said.

A criminal case has been opened under Part 3 of Article 165 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and all members of the group have been placed in custody.

Investigators said the suspects exerted prolonged pressure on the victim, placing her in a difficult situation and using threats of violence. Authorities noted that some of the suspects had previously been held administratively liable in Kokand in February and March 2026 in connection with debt-related disputes involving the same victim.

According to the investigation, the woman transferred US$90,000 to the suspects starting in December 2025. After that, they allegedly demanded repayment of US$842,000. When she was unable to meet the demands, the suspects allegedly issued threats of physical harm against her and her family, including threats involving cold weapons, and used violence.

During searches at the suspects’ homes and workplaces, police reportedly seized pneumatic pistols, a gas irritant spray, a knife, and other items relevant to the investigation.

Those detained include Karimjon Vokhidjonovich Gafurov (born 1986), Zilola Mukhammadovna Juraeva (born 1992), as well as Jamoldin Shamsiddin ogli Abilov and Sokhobbiddin Saminjon ogli Askarov, who investigators said acted as “collectors” within the group.

Law enforcement authorities urged any additional victims of the suspects to contact internal affairs bodies or call the 102 emergency hotline. Investigative actions are ongoing.