Uzbekistan Arrests Arbitration Court Judge on Bribery Allegations

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbek security and law enforcement agencies have detained an arbitration court judge on suspicion of fraud and complicity in bribery, authorities said.

According to law enforcement officials, the judge allegedly demanded US$15,000 to arrange seasonal work in South Korea. Investigators found that he offered assistance to two residents of the Andijan region, claiming connections with high-ranking officials, and received US$4,100 in advance for his services.

The arrest occurred while the suspect was returning part of the previously collected funds. Physical evidence was seized at the scene.

A criminal case has been opened under Articles 168, Part 3(a) (fraud) and 28, 211 Part 2(b) (complicity in bribery) of Uzbekistan’s Criminal Code.

The court has ordered the judge to be held in custody. Investigations are ongoing.