UNODC and UNOCT Strengthen Ballistic and Forensic Capabilities in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — UNODC and UNOCT have delivered modern forensic and ballistic equipment to the Ministries of Internal Affairs of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan as part of a joint project to combat the illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons (SALW) and their supply to terrorists.

The project, funded by the Government of Canada, aims to enhance national security and improve the effectiveness of criminal investigations.

Strengthening Ballistic Research in Tajikistan

On 26 November 2025, the UNODC Regional Office for Afghanistan, Central Asia, Iran, and Pakistan delivered high-precision digital ballistic microscopes with sample comparison functions to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Tajikistan in Dushanbe.

The new modular equipment allows systematic analysis of bullets and shell casings, tracking of firearms used in crimes, and integration with national ballistic information systems.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Tajikistan highlighted the importance of continued cooperation with UNODC and UNOCT to modernize laboratories, expand data storage, and develop expert competencies to respond to emerging threats.

Strengthening Forensic Capabilities in Uzbekistan

On 12 December 2025, UNODC delivered modern IT equipment to the Main Forensic Center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Uzbekistan.

The equipment enhances the operational and analytical capabilities of the ballistic laboratory, supports investigations into illegal weapons and terrorist crimes, and strengthens international cooperation.

UNODC Deputy Regional Representative Alexander Fedulov emphasized the organization’s commitment to ongoing partnership with the Uzbek MIA and highlighted the importance of joint efforts to counter illegal arms trafficking. Deputy Head of the Main Forensic Center Alexey Ryumin praised the project, noting its role in professional development of experts and strengthening the evidentiary basis of investigations.

Regional Impact and International Significance

The UNODC–UNOCT project aims to strengthen the technical and operational capacities of law enforcement agencies in Central Asia, enabling tracking of illicit weapons, investigation of organized crime and terrorism, and development of regional cooperation.

The initiative supports UN Security Council Resolution 2370 (2017), the Madrid Guidelines, and the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.

By combining legislative support, training programs, specialized workshops, and the delivery of modern equipment, the project significantly enhances criminal justice effectiveness, strengthens national institutions, and prevents the transfer of illegal weapons to terrorists — contributing to regional security and achieving SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.