Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 8–9 February, Uzbekistan saw a large-scale special operation "Oriyat", organized by the State Security Service (SSS) and the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA).

As part of operational and preventive measures, task forces comprising law enforcement officers, public safety specialists, and healthcare professionals, along with representatives from medical institutions, carried out raids across various regions of the country.

The operation aimed to identify crimes that threaten public morality and citizens’ health, as well as prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS, venereal diseases, and other infections.

During the operation, 362 establishments—including saunas, spas, massage parlors, karaoke bars, hotels, hostels, and nightclubs—were inspected in 506 raids.

Awareness campaigns reached 2,469 individuals deemed a potential risk to public health, with 968 of them undergoing medical examinations that resulted in official assessments.

Authorities initiated 155 criminal cases, bringing 159 individuals to criminal responsibility. Additionally, 437 citizens faced administrative penalties, 1,236 people received preventive counseling, and 624 individuals were issued official warnings.

One case involved a 19-year-old woman registered at an AIDS Prevention Center, who, despite being warned of criminal liability for knowingly transmitting infections, engaged in intimate relations with five individuals for financial gain. A criminal case has been opened against her under Article 113 of the Criminal Code.

In Khorezm region, a case of drug trafficking was uncovered: the administrator of a nightclub in Yangibazar district was selling illegal substances to customers. A search led to the seizure of drugs, two cigarettes containing illicit substances, two knives, and a stun gun.

Additionally, authorities shut down a drug den in Tashkent’s Yunusabad district, operated by a 38-year-old man and two accomplices, where synthetic drugs were being injected intravenously. A personal search of one of the suspects led to the discovery of a package containing illegal substances, which was seized as evidence.

The crackdown on public safety threats and health risks will continue, with further operations planned to protect the well-being of the population.