Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan’s State Security Service (SSS) has reported the detention of the khokim (district governor) of Sharaf-Rashidov district in Jizzakh region, Mahmud Kholbutaev, as well as the deputy prosecutor of Gulistan city in Syrdarya region, on suspicion of committing corruption-related crimes.

According to official information, a senior specialist in the Sharaf-Rashidov district administration, responsible for overseeing construction, public utilities, environmental protection, and urban improvement, demanded US$30,000 from a representative of a construction company in exchange for facilitating the hokim’s official approval for the construction of eight multi-storey residential buildings on a 1.7-hectare plot of land. This land, according to the hokim’s original resolution, had been allocated for the construction of a public school in the “Tokchilik” mahalla.

On 5 July, the specialist received the first installment of US$10,000, which he then handed over to the hokim. On 8 July, the remaining US$20,000 was paid by the businessman in exchange for signed documents authorizing the construction. Shortly afterward, the specialist met the hokim again in front of the district administration building, where both were detained by SGB officers while transferring another US$10,000.

A criminal case has been initiated against the hokim under Article 210 of the Criminal Code — “Bribery.” He has also been stripped of his parliamentary immunity. The senior specialist is facing charges under Articles 168 (Fraud) and 211 (Giving a Bribe) of the Criminal Code of Uzbekistan.

Additionally, in Syrdarya region, the deputy prosecutor of Gulistan city was detained on suspicion of corruption. Investigators established that he demanded US$10,000 from the head of an agricultural company operating in the Bayaut district. According to the SGB, the money was solicited in exchange for not seeking pre-trial detention and ensuring a favorable outcome in a criminal case against the entrepreneur under Articles 167 and 168 (Misappropriation and Fraud) of the Criminal Code.

The prosecutor was caught red-handed in his office while receiving the full requested amount.

He is now facing criminal charges under Articles 168 and 211 of the Criminal Code.

Both detained officials have been taken into custody, and investigative proceedings are ongoing.