The deputy mayor in Syrdarya province was detained, the State Security Service reported. Reportedly, the deputy mayor of Khavas district of Syrdarya province and a specialist at district provincial investment, industry and trade department colluded to make illegal proceeds.
They received $10,000 from a farmer in June of this year in exchange for adding a livestock farm holding a 452 ha land plot for rice cultivation program next year, confirming fulfillment by the farm of export targets, not taking action against for shortcomings, as well as allegedly protecting him during an check of farms by the State Security Service district branch
Later, the deputy mayor threatened to confiscate the land to the state’s reserve and to open criminal proceedings against the farmer, demanding an additional $20,000. He was detained during a swift operation while receiving $10,000 of the requested money through his colleague.
Currently, a criminal case has been opened against the deputy mayor and specialist under Extortion by or for the benefit of a crime group charge of the Criminal Code, with the men arrested.
