Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — A 48-year-old native of Almalyk, Pavel Kim, has been detained in Tashkent Region on suspicion of committing fraud on an especially large scale.
According to investigators, he provided loans to individuals while requiring them to sign debt receipts for amounts significantly higher than the money actually handed over. The Tashkent Region Main Department of Internal Affairs has received complaints from 65 alleged victims, its press service reported.
According to law enforcement authorities, Kim lent US$1,000 to one individual but stated US$10,000 in the debt receipt. He subsequently filed court claims seeking to recover money on the basis of such documents.
During searches of the suspect’s apartment and office, investigators found around 100 debt receipts, cadastral documents for 55 properties and an air gun. They also discovered documents from the Bureau of Compulsory Enforcement concerning the recovery of money from approximately 50 individuals. The names of 14 foreign nationals were among those listed.
Criminal proceedings have been initiated against Kim under paragraph “a” of Part 4 of Article 168 of Uzbekistan’s Criminal Code (fraud on an especially large scale), Part 1 of Article 188 (illegal business activity) and paragraph “a” of Part 2 of Article 205 (abuse of power or official authority causing especially large damage).
The suspect has been detained and remanded in custody. Investigative proceedings are ongoing.
Law enforcement authorities are urging anyone who may have suffered from Kim’s alleged actions or has information about his activities to contact the Tashkent Region Main Department of Internal Affairs at 71-762-20-82 or 102. All reports will be treated confidentially.
