Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — An underground tunnel used for the smuggling of petroleum products between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan has been uncovered, according to a report by the Financial Monitoring Agency of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The illicit operation was dismantled as part of a joint special operation coordinated by the Prosecutor’s Office, with the involvement of the Financial Monitoring Agency’s regional department in Turkestan, the National Security Committee, and with active support from Uzbekistan’s law enforcement agencies.

Authorities discovered a 450-meter underground trench along the border, which was used for the illegal transfer of fuel and lubricants. According to investigators, the route was used to smuggle fuel from Kazakhstan into Uzbekistan.

The smuggling network had been operational for two months. During this time, its organizers established a stable logistical chain, secured foreign financing, and built a systematic infrastructure to supply fuel across the border.

In parallel, law enforcement agencies in Uzbekistan conducted their own investigations and identified all individuals involved in the illegal operation, including Uzbek citizens.

As part of the investigation, five Kazakhstani nationals were charged with criminal offenses. The investigation has been completed, and the case has been forwarded to the court.