Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A security controller of the Aviation Security Service at Tashkent International Airport named after Islam Karimov demanded US$500 from a local resident in exchange for assistance in securing a job as a security controller, allegedly through his connections with airport officials.

During an operation conducted jointly by the State Security Service and the Department under the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the enterprising controller was apprehended with physical evidence at the moment of receiving the agreed amount of US$500 through fraudulent means.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect admitted to having taken money ranging from US$500 to US$1,000 from about ten individuals in return for promises of employment at the airport.

A criminal case has been initiated against him under Part 1 of Article 168 and Part 1 of Article 28,211 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and investigative actions are ongoing.

Authorities are continuing efforts to identify other citizens who may have fallen victim to his schemes.